busily

[ biz-uh-lee ]

adverb

1. in a busy manner; actively.

   Synonyms: vigorously

busily

/ ˈbɪzɪlɪ /

adverb

1. in a busy manner; industriously

Other Words From

• non·busi·ly adverb
• over·busi·ly adverb
• super·busi·ly adverb
• un·busi·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of busily¹

First recorded in 1175–1225, busily is from the Middle English word bisiliche. See busy, -ly

Example Sentences

He would shake hands with the entire crew if the interview was on camera, and there would often be an embrace for the stenographers busily transcribing his thoughts.

From BBC

Here’s what they’re up to: busily exemplifying the definition of insanity — doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results.

From Los Angeles Times

Leo Villareal, the artist behind the original Bay Lights, is busily crafting the new version.

From New York Times

As the European nations chose up sides, they were busily arming themselves.

From Literature

Like the bees progressing from bud to bud and the extra zippy birds darting through the trees, I too go busily about with my own spring rituals of freshening things up and airing things out.

From Salon

Related Words

• ardently
• assiduously
• carefully
• diligently
• eagerly
• earnestly
• energetically
• enthusiastically
• hastily
• hurriedly
• laboriously
• nimbly
• painstakingly
• purposefully
• restlessly
• vigorously