thrive

verb

THRYV/θɹaɪv/

Formsthrives, thriving, thrived

2 meanings of thrive

Practice

1
verbintransitive
To grow vigorously and luxuriantly; to flourish and gain in stature.
Tropical ferns thrive in humid, shaded environments where the soil stays moist.
The coral reef thrived once the surrounding water cleared and warmed.
Similarflourish, prosper, bloom, blossom, burgeon
Oppositewither, languish, wilt, decline
2
verbintransitive
To increase in wealth or success; to prosper and turn a profit.
Family farms thrive in seasons when commodity prices stay high.
The startup was thriving within two years of its launch.
Similarprosper, flourish, succeed, boom
Oppositefail, struggle, decline, founder

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Origin

This word comes from Middle English thryven, from Old Norse þrífa ("to seize, grasp, take hold, prosper"), from Proto-Germanic *þrībaną ("to seize, prosper") and ultimately Proto-Indo-European *trep- ("to satisfy, enjoy"). It is related to Swedish trivas, Danish trives, and Norwegian trives.