Preparatory school work done outside school (especially at home).
Synonyms:prep, preparation.
2.
Hence: (fig.) Studies or other preparatory work done prior to some activity; usually used of preparations for activities of significance or consequence for the performer; as, the candidate didn't do her homework well and was outclassed in the debate.
... closed the hated, brown-covered book and turned to write the arithmetic homework on the blackboard. Instantly John's attention wandered to objects and sounds far more interesting than the barren, ... — A Son of the City - A Story of Boy Life • Herman Gastrell Seely
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