First Known Use: 1599
Dictionary
strenuous
adjective stren·u·ous \ˈstren-yə-wəs\
: requiring or showing great energy and effort
Full Definition of STRENUOUS
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
See strenuous defined for English-language learners
See strenuous defined for kids
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Origin of STRENUOUS
Latin strenuus
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>.
STRENUOUSNESS Defined for Kids
strenuous
adjective stren·u·ous \ˈstren-yə-wəs\
Definition of STRENUOUS for Kids
1
: showing or requiring much energy and effort <a strenuous climb>
Learn More About STRENUOUS
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