noun
hard work; rough physical labour
Refers to physically demanding, often unskilled or strenuous work. The term carries a nuance of toil and effort, sometimes with a negative connotation of hardship. Compare with 荒仕事 (あらしごと), which is more common.
See also: あらしごと
建設現場での荒働きは体にこたえる。
The rough physical labour at the construction site takes a toll on the body.
彼は若い頃、港湾で荒働きをして生計を立てていた。
When he was young, he made a living doing hard work at the docks.