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Synonyms

thrive

American  
[thrahyv] / θraɪv /

verb (used without object)

thrived, throve, thrived, thriven, thriving
  1. to prosper; be fortunate or successful.

    Synonyms:
    advance
  2. to grow or develop vigorously; flourish.

    The children thrived in the country.


verb phrase

  1. thrive on to do particularly well under specified conditions.

    Some plants are adapted to thrive on rainwater alone.

    She thrives on drama and chaos.

thrive British  
/ θraɪv /

verb

  1. to grow strongly and vigorously

  2. to do well; prosper

"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

Usage

What does thrive mean? To thrive is to grow and develop strongly.This sense of the word can be applied to people as well as other living things, including animals and plants.Thrive can also mean to be successful, to be fulfilled, or to develop successfully.Both senses of thrive are often discussed alongside the specific conditions, environment, or situation that allow or help someone or something to thrive. For example, babies thrive in loving homes with the proper nutrition and care. Wild animals tend to thrive when their natural habitat is preserved. Plants thrive when they receive the right amount of sunlight and water. A person might begin to thrive in their career when they work at a place where their talents are appreciated and they’re given the freedom to try new things.The adjective thriving can be used to describe someone or something that is developing successfully or that is being successful.Example: Being around other creative people really helps my writing thrive.

Related Words

See succeed.

Other Word Forms

  • thriver noun
  • thriving adjective
  • thrivingly adverb

Etymology

Origin of thrive

First recorded in 1150–1200; Middle English thriven, from Old Norse thrīfast “to thrive,” reflexive of thrīfa “to grasp”

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.

But if investors rely on smart, time-tested risk management, their portfolios will thrive in the coming year.

From The Wall Street Journal

I'm wondering if that's why Fiona is thriving in there, she can separate her emotions from the fact it's just a game.

From BBC

"It's amazing, she's thriving. She's so strong. There really is light at the end of the tunnel," Reel added.

From BBC

Use it to help you and your business thrive.

From MarketWatch

Microorganisms that thrive in harsh settings such as acidic lakes, volcanic soils, and deep caves may be especially useful as we explore what could work under Martian conditions.

From Science Daily