1. toil Work is the generic term for any continuous application of energy toward an end; work may be hard or easy. Labor is hard and wearying work; toil is straining and exhausting work. Work i Synonyms: work, achievement, doing, labor, product, action, drudgery, occupation, production, business, employment, performance, toil, deed, exertion Antonyms: ease, leisure, recreation, relaxation, repose, rest, vacation, idleness