What does chore mean?
A chore is a routine task, typically a small domestic job like washing dishes, doing laundry, or tidying up, that must be performed regularly. The word carries a mildly negative connotation: chores are necessary but rarely enjoyed, and calling something a chore implies it is tedious, dull, or burdensome. Beyond housework, the term is used figuratively for any unwelcome undertaking — filling out paperwork, attending a long meeting, or studying for an exam can all be described as chores. The word is chiefly a North American usage for domestic tasks, though it is widely understood elsewhere; British English often prefers terms like "housework." Interestingly, "chore" descends from the older English word "char," the same root seen in "charwoman," which referred to work done by the day or by turns. Because so much of daily life involves repetitive upkeep, "chore" remains one of the most frequently used words for the unglamorous labor that keeps a household running.
A routine or unpleasant task, especially a regular domestic job such as cleaning, cooking, or gardening.
"Taking out the trash is my least favorite chore."
A tedious, difficult, or burdensome task or activity.
"Reading the contract proved to be a real chore."
The plural is common when referring collectively to multiple household tasks; singular "chore" is typical when speaking of one specific task or using the word figuratively.
"On weekends she divides the chores among the whole family."
"Chore" is actually an American cousin of the old English word "char" — the same word hiding inside "charwoman" — and centuries ago it simply meant taking your turn at a task.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of chore
The word "chore" originated as an American English variant of "char," from Middle English "cherre" and ultimately Old English "cerr" or "cierr," meaning a turn or occasion — hence a task one takes one's turn at. Related forms include the archaic "chare" and compounds such as "charwoman." By the eighteenth century, "chore" was established in American English with its modern sense of a routine domestic task, while the parent form "char" continued in British English.
How chore is actually used
Primarily informal to neutral in register and common in everyday speech. In American English "chore" is standard for household tasks; British English more often uses "housework" or "jobs," though "chores" is well understood. When applied to non-domestic activities ("reading felt like a chore"), the word takes on a figurative sense emphasizing tedium rather than physical labor.
Easily confused with chore
"Char" is the older word from which "chore" developed, meaning work done by the day or a hired domestic worker (as in "charwoman"), while "chore" is its Americanized form now used mainly for routine domestic tasks.