work [OE] Work is connected with the Greek word ergon, which is the source of energy [M16th], ergonomic [1950s], and *surgeon. Wrought [OE], meaning ‘made in a particular way’ and found in wrought iron [M16th], is the old past form of work, which people used where we now use worked. Wright, a common surname that means ‘maker’ and is found in words such as shipwright [OE] and wheelwright [ME], is also closely related to work. The first workaholic was mentioned in 1947. The dictum ‘Work expands so as to fill the time available’ is known as Parkinson’s law. It was first expressed by Professor C. Northcote Parkinson in 1955. Much older is the proverb All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy, which is first found in 1659. See also devil.