Definition

The work related to managing accounts, keeping records, or formatting books, often involving the use of textbooks or memorization of information.

Example

She spent the afternoon doing bookwork to prepare for her accounting exam.

Conversation

I have so much bookwork to catch up on this weekend.

Really? I thought you finished that last week.

I did, but then more assignments came in that require bookwork.

That sounds overwhelming! Maybe we can study together to make it easier.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Bookwork is formed from "book" (from Old English *bōc*, meaning a written work or text) and "work" (from Old English *weorc*, meaning labor or effort). The term refers to work that involves reading, writing, or studying from books.

Memory Tip

Think of 'books' as written works and 'work' as effort — bookwork means the effort involved in studying or working with books.

Visually Confused Words