Edit page | Page history | Printable version

Busy

1. Engaged in some business; hard at work (either habitually or only for the time being); occupied with serious affairs; not idle nor at leisure; as, a busy merchant. Sir, my mistress sends you word THat she is busy, and she can not come. (Shak)

2. Constantly at work; diligent; active. Busy hammers closing rivets up. (Shak) Religious motives . . . Are so busy in the heart. (Addison)

3. Crowded with business or activities; said of places and times; as, a busy street. To-morrow is a busy day. (Shak)

4. Officious; meddling; foolish active. On meddling monkey, or on busy ape. (Shak)

5. Careful; anxious.

Synonym: Diligent, industrious, assiduous, active, occupied, engaged.

Origin: oe. Busi, bisi, as. Bysig; akin to D. Bezig, LG. Besig; cf. Skr. Bhsh to be active, busy.