Strenuous | Definition of strenuous by Merriam-Webster

Full Definition of STRENUOUS

1

a : vigorously active : energetic

b : fervent, zealous <his most strenuous supporters>

2

: marked by or calling for energy or stamina : arduous <a strenuous hike>

— stren·u·os·i·ty \ˌstren-yə-ˈwä-sə-tē\ noun

— stren·u·ous·ly \ˈstren-yə-wəs-lē\ adverb

— stren·u·ous·ness noun

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Origin of STRENUOUS

Latin strenuus

First Known Use: 1599

Related to STRENUOUS

Synonyms: aggressive, assertive, dynamic, energetic, forceful, full-blooded, muscular, resounding, emphatic, vehement, vigorous, violent

Antonyms: nonassertive, nonemphatic, unemphatic

Synonym Discussion of STRENUOUS

vigorous, energetic, strenuous, lusty, nervous mean having or showing great vitality and force. vigorous further implies showing no signs of depletion or diminishing of freshness or robustness <as vigorous as a youth half his age>. energetic suggests a capacity for intense activity <an energetic campaigner>. strenuous suggests a preference for coping with the arduous or the challenging <the strenuous life on an oil rig>. lusty implies exuberant energy and capacity for enjoyment <a lusty appetite for life>. nervous suggests especially the forcibleness and sustained effectiveness resulting from mental vigor <full of nervous energy>.