To cause something to function properly or succeed, often through effort, adjustment, or problem-solving.
This phrase combines the causative verb 'make' with 'work' meaning to function. The construction emerged in English around the 17th century, gaining popularity in technical and mechanical contexts before expanding to general problem-solving situations.
This phrase perfectly captures the hands-on, determined attitude of problem-solvers throughout history. It's fascinating how 'work' here doesn't mean labor, but rather the smooth functioning of a system - much like we say a clock 'works' when it keeps proper time.
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