prosper

[ pros-per ]

verb (used without object)

1. to be successful or fortunate, especially in financial respects; thrive; flourish.

   Antonyms: fail

verb (used with object)

1. Archaic. to make successful or fortunate.

prosper

/ ˈprɒspə /

verb

1. usually intr to thrive, succeed, etc, or cause to thrive, succeed, etc in a healthy way

Other Words From

• un·prospered adjective
• un·prosper·ing adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of prosper¹

First recorded in 1425–75; late Middle English prosperen, Old French prosperer, from Latin prosperāre “to make happy,” derivative of prosperus prosperous

Word History and Origins

Origin of prosper¹

C15: from Latin prosperāre to succeed, from prosperus fortunate, from pro- ¹+ spēs hope

Synonym Study

See succeed.

Example Sentences

This number is based on a consumer survey of 8,191 consumers conducted by Prosper Insights & Analytics.

From Salon

Watkins’ third-quarter surge brought the Trojans within three points, but Notre Dame capitalized on offensive rebounds from Cassandre Prosper and two three-pointers from Olivia Miles to stretch the Fighting Irish’s lead to 21 points as fans trickled toward the exit.

From Los Angeles Times

He did not prosper in Britain’s selective education system of the time, which streamed children’s academic futures via an examination at age 11.

From New York Times

For that forest to prosper, many of the pre-existing flora and fauna have been decimated or exiled.

From Salon

When the draw is made next month, some of Europe's superpowers could lie in wait in pot one, and Bellamy believes matches such as last Saturday's hard-earned draw in Turkey in an intimidating atmosphere will equip his players with the kind of experience they will need to prosper against tough opponents next year.

From BBC

Related Words

• bloom
• blossom
• catch on
• do well
• flourish
• multiply
• thrive