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DictionaryRoot: ergon
Greek

ergon

work, deed, or activity

Forms

  • ergon
  • erg- — Used before other endings.
  • ergo- — Used with a linking o in compounds.

Origin

From an old Indo-European root for work, related to English work.

Note

Work can mean an activity, a product, or the capacity to act.

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adjective

energetic

en-er-JET-ik/ˌenərˈdʒetɪk/

Active and full of energy.

The energetic man springs into a jumping jack with a lively smile.

A young man performs an exuberant jumping jack, springing off the ground with arms raised, legs spread, and a broad, lively smile.
Etymology
enGreekin, within
+ergGreekwork, deed, or activity
+eticGreekrelating to or characterized by

The underlying image is being at work or in action. Energetic first described something powerful in operation, then came to describe people showing abundant activity and vitality.

In context

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More examples

  • I feel more energetic after a good night's sleep.
  • The band gives an energetic performance.
  • We need an energetic volunteer to lead the games.

Forms

energetic · more energetic · most energetic

energetically adverb — In an active and lively way.

Similar words

lively
Emphasizes animation and high spirits rather than sustained effort.
vigorous
Emphasizes strength and force in movement or effort.
active
Emphasizes doing things, without necessarily showing abundant energy.