businesslike adjective2 •Methodical and efficient, in a way that would be advantageous to a business or businessperson.The gunners stood by the guns waiting, and the ammunition waggons were at a business-like distance. — 1898 •Earnest and practical without being distracted or enthusiastic.Then, with a businesslike rigor, he grasped the outstretched palm of Casey DeSantis, Florida’s first lady. — 2024 formsmore businesslike · most businesslike