Work described as 'thankless' often implies emotional or physical exhaustion without reward. Cleaning up after the festival was a thankless task, leaving the volunteers utterly spent.
Pro Tip 2/3
Lack of Visibility
A 'thankless' job is usually behind the scenes, unnoticed by many. Fact-checking articles is a thankless job; readers rarely know who did it.
Pro Tip 3/3
Seldom Complimented
Positions dubbed 'thankless' typically receive little praise or applause. Directing traffic on a hot day is often a thankless work.