# hustler

/ˈhəsəɫɝ/ (US) · /hˈʌslɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hustler
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

a person who is very good at making money or winning in games, often by using clever tricks. In the military, it can also mean a person who is very good at their job and works hard to get ahead.

For teachers: a person who is highly skilled in a particular field, especially in gambling or business, and is known for their ability to succeed through aggressive or clever tactics. In a military context, it refers to a soldier who is exceptionally competent and proactive in their duties.

## Examples

- He is a real hustler at the poker table.
- The team needed a hustler to lead the charge during the final minutes of the championship game.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.