busy

bu-sy · adjective

imported

Definitions

adjective

  1. 1.

    Having a great deal to do; occupied with activity.

  2. 2.

    To keep occupied.

  3. 3.

    Full of activity or people.

  4. 4.

    (of a telephone line) In use.

  5. 5.

    Excessively detailed or decorated.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    busy as a bee — very industrious
  • •
    busy signal — tone indicating a phone line is in use
  • •
    get busy — start working; become active
  • •
    busy body — a nosy person who interferes in others' affairs

Related words

Antonyms: available, free, idle, unoccupied
See also: active, engaged, hectic, occupied
Synonyms: active, engaged, hectic, occupied, swamped

Etymology

From Old English "bisig" meaning careful, anxious, or occupied, of unknown origin.