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Synonyms

energetic

American  
[en-er-jet-ik] / ˌɛn ərˈdʒɛt ɪk /
Sometimes energetical

adjective

  1. possessing or exhibiting energy, especially in abundance; vigorous.

    an energetic leader.

  2. powerful in action or effect; effective.

    to take energetic measures against crime.

    Synonyms:
    potent, strong, effectual

energetic British  
/ ˌɛnəˈdʒɛtɪk /

adjective

  1. having or showing much energy or force; vigorous

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Synonym Usage

See active.

Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

Etymology

Origin of energetic

First recorded in 1645–55; from Greek energētikós, from energē- (from en- en- 2 + ergē-, variant stem of ergeîn “to be active”; see energy) + -tikos -tic

Explanation

Energetic describes someone who has lots of get-up-and-go. When you decide to jog alongside the bus instead of taking it to work, you are energetic — so energetic that it tires the rest of the commuters out just watching you. Energetic comes from the Greek, energetikos, meaning “active.” When you are energetic, you're active with enthusiasm and excitement to spare. Energetic describes those little kids you babysit, who never sit still and force you to play hide and seek. Energetic can also mean a powerful focused effort, where you work hard to achieve something. The energetic bond between the men was formed after months of training together in the military.

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Vocabulary lists containing energetic

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.

Accurate Energetic Systems was cooperating with the investigation, they said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 12, 2025

Accurate Energetic Systems couldn’t be reached for comment.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 10, 2025

Aerial video from the scene showed charred debris, smouldering vehicles and little remaining of the facility, which is owned by Accurate Energetic Systems.

From BBC • Oct. 10, 2025

Accurate Energetic Systems, an explosives manufacturer founded in 1980, did not immediately respond to AFP's request for comment.

From Barron's • Oct. 10, 2025

Several other companies, such as the Great Western Spinach Growers’ Association and the Energetic Breakfast Oats Company, wanted him to recommend their product, too, and offered him large sums of cash.

From "Mr. Popper's Penguins" by Florence Atwater and Richard Atwater

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