hustle
UK: ˈhʌs.əl | US: ˈhʌs.əl
vt. to push or force one's way aggressively
vt. to work energetically, especially in a busy or hurried manner
n. energetic activity or busy movement
n. (slang) a scheme or fraud to obtain money
The word hustle entered English in the early 16th century from Dutch, initially meaning "to shake or toss." By the 17th century, it expanded to describe energetic or forceful movement, later adopting connotations of aggressive effort or fraud (19th century slang). The modern dual meaning reflects both physical vigor and opportunistic scheming.
She had to hustle through the crowd to catch the train.
He hustles every day to build his startup.
The city streets were full of hustle and noise.
They accused him of running a hustle to scam investors.
If you want to succeed, you need to hustle and stay focused.