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Definitions

industrious

[in-duhs-tree-uhs] / ɪnˈdʌs tri əs /
ADJECTIVE
hardworking
Synonyms
STRONGEST
conscientious diligent energetic productive
WEAK
active assiduous ball of fire burning busy dynamic eager grind in full swing intent involved jumping laborious on the go operose perky persevering persistent plugging psyched up on purposeful sedulous spirited steady tireless zealous
Antonyms
STRONGEST
inactive lazy lethargic
WEAK
idle indolent lackadaisical slack unemployed unproductive

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.

The industrious attacking midfielder has become an integral part of Barcelona's squad since making his debut in the 2023/24 season, making 113 appearances and scoring 29 goals.

From Barron's • Jan. 30, 2026

But you don’t have to be quite that industrious to pull this off.

From Salon • Dec. 23, 2025

Leo Damrosch traces Stevenson’s life from sickly student in 19th-century Edinburgh through his enormous literary success—a career characterized by a joyfully industrious work ethic, a love of travel and a sparkling, warm wit.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 3, 2025

The industrious thrum of the heavy-duty sewing machines, along with the workers' chatter, normally fills the plant with a reassuring rhythm.

From BBC • Sep. 30, 2025

Colonel Cathcart was indefatigable that way, an industrious, intense, dedicated military tactician who calculated day and night in the service of himself.

From "Catch-22" by Joseph Heller

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.