General
eager beaver
What does eager beaver mean?
Used approvingly for genuine, energetic diligence.
"We need an eager beaver on this project who'll actually finish it."
Origin
American slang popularized in the early 1940s, especially in military training camps for the overly zealous recruit. The rhyme made it stick and it quickly spread into civilian workplaces.
Frequently asked questions
What does eager beaver mean?
An overly enthusiastic, hardworking person who's keen to take on every task.
Where did eager beaver come from?
It took off in early-1940s America, especially among military recruits, with the rhyme helping it spread.
Is calling someone an eager beaver an insult?
It depends on tone — it can praise genuine drive or gently mock someone for being too keen.
Is it still in use?
Yes, it survived the war and remains a common, mild expression in offices and schools.
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