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

Many are drought-tolerant, thrive in a variety of soil conditions, and are all-around low-maintenance plants. —Lauren David, Southern Living, 8 June 2025

In 17 games with Daniels under center, McLaurin thrived by catching 82 passes for 1,096 yards and a career-high 13 touchdowns. —Justin Grasso, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 June 2025

Hoerner has thrived when the Cubs have needed a big hit with runners on base. —Meghan Montemurro, Chicago Tribune, 6 June 2025

Action step: Volunteer for projects outside your usual scope to expand your skills and demonstrate your ability to thrive in unfamiliar territory. —Kent Ingle, Forbes.com, 6 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing thrive

• thrive on

Rhymes for thrive

• dive
• drive
• five
• hive
• jive
• live
• strive
• alive
• archive
• arrive
• beehive
• connive

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