verb
Uncommon
thrive
thryv
Thrive (verb) means to grow strong and healthy, or to flourish. Example: “These plants thrive in full sun.”
verb
1
To grow strong and healthy, or to flourish.
"These plants thrive in full sun."
"Children thrive with consistent routines."
"Tomatoes thrive in warm, sheltered gardens with plenty of water."
2
To become increasingly successful or prosperous.
"The small business thrived after moving online."
"Local bakeries thrive when people choose to shop on their own high street."
"She began to thrive in her new job as a team leader."
How to use thrive
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo grow well and succeed, whether that's a person, plant, or business.
Common pairings
thrive in
thrive on challenge
a thriving business
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- thrives
- Past tense
- throve, thrived, thriven
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
These plants _____ in full sun.
Etymology
From Old Norse þrífa, meaning "to grasp" or "to prosper" — the idea of seizing opportunity is baked into the word's roots.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for thrive
See all rhymes for thrive →Frequently asked questions
What does “thrive” mean?
The word “thrive” means to grow strong and healthy, or to flourish. In plain terms, to grow well and succeed, whether that's a person, plant, or business.
How do you pronounce “thrive”?
“Thrive” is pronounced thryv (/θɹaɪv/ in IPA).
How do you use “thrive” in a sentence?
Here is “thrive” used in a sentence: “These plants thrive in full sun.”
What part of speech is “thrive”?
“Thrive” is a verb.
Where does the word “thrive” come from?
The word “thrive” comes from Old Norse. From Old Norse þrífa, meaning "to grasp" or "to prosper" — the idea of seizing opportunity is baked into the word's roots.
Is “thrive” a common word?
“Thrive” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “thrive” have?
“Thrive” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to grow strong and healthy, or to flourish.
What is the difference between "thrive" and "survive"?
"Survive" means simply to continue existing despite difficult conditions, while "thrive" means to grow strong, healthy, and successful, going well beyond mere survival. A business can survive a downturn without thriving, but thriving implies genuine growth and prosperity.
What is the difference between "thrive" and "flourish"?
"Thrive" and "flourish" are close synonyms, both describing strong growth or success, and are often used interchangeably. "Flourish" can carry a slightly more vivid or decorative connotation, often used for flourishing plants, art, or culture, while "thrive" is used more broadly for people, organizations, and living things.
What are common collocations with "thrive"?
"Thrive" frequently appears in phrases such as "thrive in an environment," "thrive under pressure," and "thrive despite challenges." These collocations describe conditions under which someone or something grows strong or becomes successful.
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