industrious

[in-duhs-tree-uhs]

adjective

1. working energetically and devotedly; hardworking; diligent.

   an industrious person.

   Synonyms: energetic, tireless, sedulous, persevering, assiduous
   Antonyms: indolent, lazy

2. Obsolete.,  skillful.

industrious

/ ɪnˈdʌstrɪəs /

adjective

1. hard-working, diligent, or assiduous

2. an obsolete word for skilful

Other Word Forms

• industriousness noun
• industriously adverb
• nonindustrious adjective
• nonindustriously adverb
• superindustrious adjective
• superindustriously adverb
• unindustrious adjective
• unindustriously adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of industrious¹

First recorded in 1525–35; from Middle French industrie “cleverness, skill,” from Old French industrie “contrivance, device,” from Latin industrius “diligent, assiduous”; equivalent to indo-, by-form of in- “in” ( in- ² ( def. ) + -struus, noun derivative of struere “to arrange, devise, build”

Synonym Study

See busy.

Example Sentences

But this industrious insect isn't flying back to stir its witch's cauldron, or playing Quidditch.

From BBC

Her first order of business, however, is pitting the scowling Ritter and bland, industrious Wittmers, who had managed a bearable distance so far, against each other.

From Los Angeles Times

Reading aloud, Mr Hopkins says: "He's cheerful and industrious, with a mischievous sense of humour and fondness for practical jokes."

From BBC

A solid defence and industrious midfield made them tough to beat in the second half of last season.

From BBC

As Roz explores this strange new world, she encounters angry bears, a loquacious squirrel and industrious beavers, who regard her as a malevolent force.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• conscientious 
• diligent 
• energetic 
• productive