Meaning of plain work | Babel Free

Definitions

1. Basic, non-ornamental work; specifically (now (historical)) simple needlework.
   uncountable
2. Smooth stonework without decoration or ornamentation.
   uncountable

Examples

“If you would fit your self to serve⟳ a Gentle woman only, (either in City or Country) you must not only learn⟳ how to dress, wash⟳ and starch very well, all manner of Tiffanies, Lawns, Points and Laces, and to mend⟳ the same, but you must learn⟳ to work⟳ all sorts of Needle work⟳ and plain work⟳ […]”

“Sally was put⟳ Apprentice to a Sempstress in Duke's-Place near Aldgate, to learn⟳ Plain-Work, &c.”

“She procured plain work⟳; she plaited straw and by various means contrived to earn⟳ a pittance scarcely sufficient to support⟳ life.”

CEFR level