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Definitions

bustle

[buhs-uhl] / ˈbʌs əl /
NOUN
quick and busy activity
Synonyms
STRONGEST
commotion hubbub tumult
STRONG
ado agitation clamor do excitement flurry furor fuss haste hurry pother rumpus stir to-do turmoil uproar whirl whirlpool whirlwind
WEAK
hurly-burly
Antonyms
STRONGEST
calm calmness order peace
STRONG
delay quiet rest slowness
WEAK
laziness relaxation
VERB
move around quickly, busily
Synonyms
STRONGEST
flit hum scurry
STRONG
bestir dash dust flutter fuss hasten hurry hustle run rush scamper scramble scuttle stir tear whirl whisk
Antonyms
STRONG
dally delay procrastinate rest slow wait

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

I know it’s time for a spring refresh when the bustle of holiday and winter cooking starts to linger.

From Salon • Mar. 19, 2026

It’s hard for us to feel isolated amid the city’s bustle of humanity that we find invigorating.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 6, 2026

The sun is warm, the breeze is cool and the peaceful bustle feeds the atmosphere at Canyon Coffee.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 14, 2026

Unlike many other dwellings in the concrete jungle, this one has its own plush garden, allowing the most famous woman in China to reconnect with nature amid New York City’s hustle and bustle.

From MarketWatch • Nov. 25, 2025

Amongst the hustle and bustle, two large cages rattle on top of two laden trolleys.

From "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child" by J.K. Rowling