Bustler

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A lively individual who engages enthusiastically in numerous tasks and endeavors
2. A person characterized by their vigorous involvement in a variety of activities and pursuits
3. A person who is very active and always involved in many tasks with enthusiasm

Etymology: "Bustler" is a straightforward formation: the verb "bustle" with the agent suffix "-er," meaning one who does the action. "Bustle" itself is the older word, and it has a notable origin of its own. It first appeared in English as a noun meaning a fuss or commotion, and the verb followed from it, so the word for a busy person came from the activity rather than the other way round. The suffix does most of the work here. Adding "-er" to a verb produces a noun for someone who performs it, as with "baker" or "writer," so a bustler is simply someone who bustles, whether that means moving briskly through a crowd or throwing themselves into a flurry of activity. The word is rare compared with its parent, which is why it can sound slightly old-fashioned to modern ears.

Synonyms: hustler, worker, doer, go-getter, mover

Antonyms: idler, slacker, loafer, lazy person, laggard