noun
industry
Steady, diligent work or effort.
Her industry and patience help her master each new skill.
Etymology
The Latin word names diligence or active effort. This sense of industry preserves that personal quality rather than the later organization of manufacturing.
More examples
- The teacher praised his industry throughout the semester.
- Through years of industry, she turned a neglected yard into a garden.
- Talent alone cannot replace industry.
Forms
industrious adjective — Working steadily and with diligent effort.
Similar words
- diligence
- Emphasizes careful attention as well as steady effort.
- perseverance
- Emphasizes continuing despite difficulties, delays, or repeated failures.
- assiduity
- A formal alternative emphasizing close, persistent attention to work.