What does it mean if something is described as sinecure?

Describing something as a sinecure indicates that it involves minimal duties and responsibilities, often to the point of being virtually effortless. Sinecures are positions that typically provide benefits or compensation without the typical demands associated with more active roles. This term is often used in a critical context, suggesting that the individual holds a position that is more about status or financial reward than about contributing labor or effort.

The notion of minimal duties aligns with the essence of a sinecure, as it implies a lack of significant responsibilities that would normally require noticeable effort or engagement. In contrast, the other options suggest scenarios involving high levels of work, physical demands, or competition, which do not fit the definition of a sinecure.