bisy

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Middle English

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Alternative forms

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Etymology

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From Old English bisig, from Proto-West Germanic *bisīg (diligent, zealous, busy).

Pronunciation

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Adjective

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bisy (plural and weak singular bisye, comparative bisiere, superlative bisiest)

  1. (of a person) Engaged in activity; preoccupied.
  2. Having a strong work ethic; diligent, industrious, hard-working.
  3. Disposed to anxiety or concern, particularly about practical matters; solicitous, worried.
  4. Eager to; intent upon (typically followed by to, for to or þat.
    • 1393, John Gower, Confessio Amantis:
      Mi will..is besi nyht and day, To lerne al that he lerne may.
      (please add an English translation of this quotation)
  5. (of an action or place) Characterised by activity and vigor.

Derived terms

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Descendants

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  • English: busy
  • Scots: bissy, besy, bussie

References

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