labor over (something)

labor over (something)

To put in a lot of time, energy, and effort to successfully accomplish or complete something. I've been laboring over this dissertation for months now. My wife likes to plan every minute of our vacation, laboring over the tiniest details.
See also: labor, over
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

labor over someone or something

to work hard on someone or something. The surgeon labored over the patient for four hours. I labored over this painting for months before I got it the way I wanted it.
See also: labor, over
McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs.
See also:
  • labor over
  • labored
  • labour
  • labor at
  • labor at (something)
  • bust (one's) balls
  • bust balls
  • group
  • a committee is a group of men who keep minutes and waste hours
  • be able to do something in your sleep