Manual labor is a term that refers to work completed through the use of physical exertion instead of intellectual or technical abilities. There are plenty of synonyms for manual labor, including physical labor, grunt work, blue-collar work, and manual work. These synonyms all refer to the same concept of carrying out work through the use of physical labor. Although manual labor may not be as highly valued as some types of work that require higher levels of education, it is vital for many industries and essential for the functioning of society. Whether working in construction, manufacturing, or agriculture, manual laborers play an integral role in maintaining our communities and economy.