lavoro

Lavoro is the Italian word for work or labor. It denotes physical or mental effort aimed at producing goods or delivering services, usually in exchange for compensation. The term traces to Latin labor, related to toil and fatigue.

As an economic concept, lavoro is one of the classical factors of production, alongside terra (land) and capitale (capital). It covers the human effort, skill, and time applied to productive activity. In macroeconomics and labor economics, the labor market matches workers who supply labor with employers who demand it. Wage levels depend on factors such as education, experience, productivity, and the overall demand for goods and services. Labor productivity—output per hour—is a key indicator of efficiency and living standards.

In sociology and political economy, lavoro is also a social phenomenon, tied to employment relationships, labor rights, and collective bargaining. Historically, labor movements and unions sought better working conditions, fair pay, and the reduction of working hours, contributing to social policy and regulation.

Legally, many countries, including Italy, recognize the right to work. The Italian Constitution states that the Republic recognizes every citizen's right to work and promotes conditions making this right effective. Labor law governs contracts, minimum standards, working time, health and safety, and anti-discrimination, often aligned with international norms set by the International Labour Organization (ILO).

Usage notes include distinctions between physical and intellectual labor, paid and unpaid work, formal and informal employment. The term remains central to discussions of employment, economic development, and social welfare.