thrive

verb

ˈthrīv 

thrived or throve ˈthrōv  ; thrived also thriven ˈthri-vən  ; thriving ˈthrī-viŋ 

intransitive verb

1

: to grow vigorously : flourish

2

: to gain in wealth or possessions : prosper

3

: to progress toward or realize a goal despite or because of circumstances

—often used with on

thrives on conflict

thriver

ˈthrī-vər 

noun

Synonyms

• burgeon
• bourgeon
• flourish
• prosper

Examples of thrive in a Sentence

these plants thrive with relatively little sunlight

going to a school for gifted students will help him thrive as a musical prodigy

Recent Examples on the Web

Health care is part of Louisville's DNA Cox, a lifelong Louisville resident, isn't surprised Norton Healthcare has been able to thrive in Louisville for more than a century. —Olivia Evans, The Courier-Journal, 4 Apr. 2024

In the City of London, at least, toxic culture is still thriving—and Copper’s hedonistic soirée is only the most recent evidence. —Orianna Rosa Royle, Fortune Europe, 2 Apr. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old Norse thrīfask, probably reflexive of thrīfa to grasp

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing thrive

• thrive on

Kids Definition

thrive

verb

ˈthrīv 

thrived or throve ˈthrōv  ; thrived also thriven ˈthriv-ən  ; thriving ˈthrī-viŋ 

1

: to grow vigorously : do well : flourish

2

: to gain in wealth or possessions : prosper