Overworked is spelled with a silent "e" at the end, which indicates that the "o" in the second syllable is pronounced as a long "o" sound. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /oʊvərˈwərkt/. The symbol "oʊ" represents the long "o" sound while the final "t" is pronounced in a quiet, subtle way. This word refers to a state of being that describes somebody who has worked too hard and is tired or burnt out from their efforts.
Overworked is an adjective used to describe someone or something that has been burdened or strained by excessive work or demands. It refers to the state of being overwhelmed or exhausted due to an excessive workload, extended working hours, or constant pressure to meet deadlines or fulfill multiple responsibilities.
When individuals are overworked, their physical and mental capacities become depleted, leading to reduced efficiency, productivity, and overall well-being. Overworked individuals often experience fatigue, stress, and burnout, which can negatively impact their health, relationships, and overall happiness.
Furthermore, the term can also pertain to inanimate objects or systems that are subjected to excessive use or demands. For instance, an overworked computer may become slow or malfunction due to prolonged and intensive usage.
Overworked is a commonly used term in various professional domains, such as healthcare, education, business, and other industries that involve demanding work environments. It highlights the detrimental effects of excessive workloads and emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Overworking is often seen as an organizational issue, as employers have a responsibility to ensure that employees are not overloaded with tasks and have access to necessary resources or support.
The word "overworked" is composed of two elements: "over-" and "worked".
The prefix "over-" comes from Old English, where it denoted excess or exaggeration. It was commonly used to suggest an excess or a superior degree.
The second part of the word, "worked", is the past participle of the verb "work". The verb "work" originated from the Old English word "wyrcan", which means "to perform" or "to make".
Therefore, the word "overworked" implies being excessively or excessively involved in work or labor.