1. a horse used for heavy work rather than racing or riding
2. a person who works very hard and reliably, especially at routine tasks
Usage: figurative
3. a machine, vehicle, or device that performs reliably over a long period
Usage: figurative

Examples

• The farmer used his workhorse to plow the fields every morning.
• She’s been the workhorse of our department for over ten years.
• This old printer is a real workhorse—it never breaks down.
• The team relied on him as their workhorse during the busy season.
• That truck has been our workhorse for hauling supplies.
• The Clydesdale was bred to be a powerful workhorse.
• He’s not flashy, but he’s a dependable workhorse who gets things done.