adj

laboured

LAY-buhd

Laboured (adj) means showing clear signs of strain or heavy effort. Example: “His breathing became laboured as he neared the top of the climb.”

adj

Showing clear signs of strain or heavy effort.

"His breathing became laboured as he neared the top of the climb."

Sounding stiff or unnatural because too much effort went into producing it.

"The speech felt laboured, as if every joke had been rehearsed too many times."

How to use laboured

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishStrained, effortful, or forced — whether it's breathing, walking, or writing.

UK vs US

British spelling; American English uses "labored."

Word forms

more laboured comparative, most laboured superlative

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His breathing became _____ as he neared the top of the climb.

Rhymes for laboured

uncured figured injured assured secured insured scoured coloured captured favoured tortured measured

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Frequently asked questions

What does “laboured” mean?

The word “laboured” means showing clear signs of strain or heavy effort. In plain terms, strained, effortful, or forced — whether it's breathing, walking, or writing.

How do you pronounce “laboured”?

“Laboured” is pronounced LAY-buhd (/ˈleɪ.bɚd/ in IPA).

How do you use “laboured” in a sentence?

Here is “laboured” used in a sentence: “His breathing became laboured as he neared the top of the climb.”

What part of speech is “laboured”?

“Laboured” is an adjective.

How many meanings does “laboured” have?

“Laboured” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: showing clear signs of strain or heavy effort.