noun
volunteer work
vol-uhn-TEER WURK
Volunteer work (noun) means Work done for a charity, community group or cause without pay, by choice. Example: “She does volunteer work at a food bank two mornings a week.”
noun
1
Work done for a charity, community group or cause without pay, by choice.
"She does volunteer work at a food bank two mornings a week."
"Volunteer work looks good on a university application, but do it because you want to."
How to use volunteer work
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishHelping out without being paid.
When to use it
Neutral. British writers often prefer 'voluntary work'; 'volunteer work' is standard in American English.
Memory tip
The activity is uncountable — say 'some volunteer work', not 'a volunteer work'.
Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
Common pairings
do volunteer work
volunteer work experience
volunteer work placement
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She does _____ at a food bank two mornings a week.
Etymology
From volunteer, via French volontaire, from Latin voluntarius 'of one's free will'.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
paid employment
salaried work
Related words
Rhymes for volunteer work
See all rhymes for volunteer work →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between volunteer work and an internship?
Volunteer work is unpaid help given to a cause or organisation for its benefit. An internship is a training placement aimed primarily at your own learning and career, and it may be paid. Charities recruit volunteers; employers offer internships.
Is volunteer work the same as community service?
Not always. Volunteer work is freely chosen. Community service can mean the same thing, but it also names unpaid work ordered by a court as a penalty, or required by a school. Context decides which is meant.
Should volunteer work go on a CV?
Yes, particularly if it shows relevant skills, fills a gap in your employment history, or demonstrates commitment. List it like a job, with the organisation, dates and what you actually did.
What is the meaning of volunteer work?
"volunteer work" (noun) means work done for a charity, community group or cause without pay, by choice.
