WordGarden.iothrive
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /θrˈaɪv/
US
- /ˈθraɪv/
Meanings
Verb
to do well, develop successfully, or flourish
to grow well and remain healthy or vigorous, especially as a living thing
Beyond the definition
To thrive isn't just surviving — it's flourishing! Think of a tiny seed planted in rich soil, getting plenty of sunshine and water. It doesn't just sprout; it thrives, growing into a healthy, vibrant plant. People can thrive too — when they have the right conditions to grow, learn, and be happy. A business might thrive under new management, or a community might thrive with increased investment. Sometimes, even difficult experiences can help us thrive by making us stronger.
To thrive means to prosper, flourish, or succeed; it's more than just existing — it's about growing vigorously and being healthy and successful. It suggests a positive and dynamic state of development. For example: "The small business thrived after implementing the new marketing strategy," meaning it grew and became successful.
The word thrive can be used to describe plants, animals, or people. A plant thrives in a warm climate, an animal thrives on a balanced diet, and a person thrives when they feel supported and challenged. It implies not just survival but also the enjoyment of life and the reaching of one's full potential.
You'll often see "thrive" used to describe resilience — the ability to bounce back from adversity. "Despite facing many obstacles, she continued to thrive," suggests that even though things were difficult, she remained strong and successful. It can also be used metaphorically: "Creativity thrives in an environment of open communication."
Unlike simply living or existing, thriving implies a vibrant energy and positive growth. So, when you want to describe something truly flourishing — reaching its peak potential and enjoying the journey — that's when you use the word thrive.
Examples
- 1
Plants
These plants thrive in warm, sunny places.
- 2
School
She started to thrive at school once she made a few close friends.
- 3
Small business
Small businesses often thrive in neighborhoods with lots of foot traffic.
- 4
Food scene
The city’s food scene is thriving again after a difficult few years.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Daily routine
Some children thrive on a clear daily routine.
- Patternthrive on + routine/support/challenge
do especially well with it
- 6
Pressure
He thrives under pressure and usually plays his best in big games.
- Phrasethrive under pressure
do well in a stressful situation
- 7
Artistic development
Young artists need time, space, and support to thrive.
See also
Forms and spellings
5 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- thriveverb
Forms
- thriving-ing formverb
- thrivesverb
- thrivedpast tensepast participleverb
- throvepast tenseverb