Definitions:

1. Refers to work that is done quickly and without much attention to quality, often for the sake of earning money rather than for artistic or professional satisfaction. NOUN
   • The writer was tired of doing hackwork for low-paying magazines and longed to work on more meaningful projects.
2. Refers to work that is unoriginal, repetitive, or lacking creativity. NOUN
   • The programmer grew frustrated with the hackwork assigned to him, as it lacked the challenging aspects of his field.
3. Term used to describe work that is done quickly and carelessly, typically for the purpose of meeting a deadline or achieving a certain quantity rather than maintaining quality or originality. NOUN
   • Many writers startin out in their careers often have to do hackwork to pay the bills.

Synonyms:

• drudgework
• grunt work
• mediocre work
• menial work
• routine work