What does diligent mean?
Diligent describes someone who applies steady, careful, and persistent effort to their work or responsibilities. A diligent person does not merely work hard in bursts; they show sustained attention to detail and follow through reliably over time. The word carries a strongly positive connotation, suggesting not just industry but conscientiousness — a sense of duty combined with thoroughness. It is most often applied to students, employees, researchers, and craftspeople: one might speak of a diligent accountant who checks every figure, or diligent preparation for an exam. The term is standard in both British and American English and suits formal as well as everyday contexts. Its Latin root, diligere, means "to value or love highly," which explains why diligence has long been associated with genuine commitment rather than mere obligation. For anyone describing reliability and perseverance, diligent remains one of the most precise and complimentary words available.
adjectiveShowing persistent and careful effort in one's work or duties; hardworking and thorough.
- Showing steady, earnest, and energetic effort in carrying out tasks or duties; characterized by care and perseverance in work.
"A diligent student, she reviewed her notes every evening until the material was second nature."
"The auditor was diligent in checking every entry before signing off on the report."
"Years of diligent practice finally paid off when she won the regional championship."
"Diligent" comes from the Latin diligere, meaning "to love or esteem highly" — so a diligent person is literally someone who cares enough to keep at it.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of diligent
Diligent derives from the Latin verb diligere, meaning "to value highly, to love, to take delight in," formed from dis- ("apart") plus legere ("to choose"). The sense evolved from choosing something carefully to attending to it with care. The word passed into English via Old French around the late Middle English period, and its noun form, diligence, appeared even earlier through the same route. Cognates include the French diligent and the Italian diligente, all preserving the Latin stem.
Related word forms
Easily confused with diligent
Diligent means showing careful, persistent effort, while dilatory means slow to act or tending to delay — nearly the opposite in meaning despite similar sound.