Part of Speech

Verb, Noun

Pronunciation

/ˈhʌsəl/

Definitions

• 1. (Verb) To move energetically or forcefully, often with haste or determination.
• 2. (Verb) To engage in activity or work with a lot of energy, effort, or drive.
• 3. (Verb) To obtain something by forceful or deceitful means, often implying dishonesty or trickery.
• 4. (Noun) Energetic or forceful action, often associated with hard work or business endeavors.
• 5. (Noun) A fraudulent or deceptive scheme or activity aimed at gaining an advantage or profit.

Usage Examples

• "He had to hustle to finish the project on time, working late into the night."
• "She hustled through the crowd to get to the front of the stage."
• "He’s been hustling on the streets to make ends meet."
• "The new startup is all about the hustle—working hard and taking risks."
• "She was caught in a hustle, where she was sold fake tickets to the concert."

Etymology

The word "hustle" has its origins in the mid-19th century, derived from the Dutch word "husselen," meaning "to shake" or "to toss." The verb form was initially used to describe physical activities such as shaking or pushing, and by the early 20th century, it began to take on the meaning of working energetically or engaging in deceptive schemes. Over time, it gained widespread usage, particularly in American English, where it evolved into a term reflecting hard work, persistence, or the act of pushing forward in competitive or tough situations.

Synonyms

• Work hard
• Push
• Strive
• Hurry
• Rush
• Grind
• Labor
• Struggle
• Scramble
• Fight

Antonyms

• Rest
• Relax
• Idle
• Rest
• Take it easy

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English, the word "hustle" is often pronounced with a stronger emphasis on the first syllable: /ˈhʌsəl/.
• In British English, "hustle" is typically pronounced with a slightly softer 'u' sound, closer to /ˈhʌsəl/ as well, though the regional accents can vary.

Historical Usage

The word "hustle" has been used in English since the mid-19th century, originally meaning "to shake or push." In the early 20th century, it gained a more figurative meaning, reflecting a sense of energy and hard work, particularly in the context of business, sports, and street culture. Over time, the meaning of "hustle" broadened to include both the pursuit of success through effort and the idea of engaging in risky, sometimes questionable business or activities. Today, it is commonly used in various contexts to refer to vigorous effort or the act of working hard towards a goal.

Cultural Nuances

The term "hustle" has become synonymous with the modern "hustle culture," which emphasizes constant effort, entrepreneurial spirit, and ambition. In this context, "hustle" often carries a positive connotation, suggesting a hardworking, go-getter attitude. However, it can also reflect the negative side of overwork or even exploitative practices. The term has found its place in pop culture, often associated with the music and entertainment industries, and has also become a popular term for the urban, fast-paced lifestyle in cities.

More Information

The concept of hustling has evolved from its original physical sense of pushing or forcing something to the modern idea of working relentlessly toward a personal or financial goal. Hustle culture is especially prevalent in startup environments and among young entrepreneurs, but it can also be seen in the sports industry, where athletes "hustle" to outdo their competition. The idea has become somewhat controversial, with critics arguing that hustle culture can lead to burnout and unhealthy work-life balance, while advocates highlight the importance of determination and resilience in achieving success.