busier; busiest
1
: actively doing something
She's busy preparing for her test.
Are you busy? Can I talk to you for a minute?
I will be busy cleaning the house.
I'm sorry I haven't called. I've been so busy.
busy people who don't have time to cook
I got enough work to keep me busy for a while.
He is a very busy person.
He's been busy in the kitchen all afternoon.
She's as busy as a bee. [=she's very busy]
—often + withThe actress is busy with a new film. [=is working on a new film]
He keeps himself busy with volunteer work.
She is busy with wedding plans.
2
a
: full of activity or work
My week has been so busy!
They live/lead busy lives.
Is there any time in your busy schedule for us to have lunch next week?
b
: full of people or things
a busy street
a busy store
3
chiefly US, of a telephone or telephone line
: being used
I tried calling her, but her line/phone is busy. [=(chiefly Brit) engaged]
Note: When you dial a telephone line that is already in use, you hear a sound that is called a busy signal.
4
: full of many details
I like the fabric, but I think the pattern is too busy for this dress.
busy wallpaper
Cite this Entry
“Busy.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/busy. Accessed 20 Apr. 2026.
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