zeal
Great enthusiasm and energy in pursuit of a goal.
Word facts
Definition
Zeal is great energy and enthusiasm in pursuit of a cause or goal. A zealous person throws themselves into what they believe in with passion and dedication.
Usage: Zeal is usually positive — a zeal for learning, a zeal for justice. Zealot can be negative if it implies fanaticism. Zealous means full of zeal: a zealous advocate.
Example sentences
- 1
She pursued the project with remarkable zeal and dedication.
- 2
His zeal for justice made him an effective advocate.
- 3
The volunteers worked with great zeal to prepare for the event.
Word family
From Greek zelos ('ardour, eager rivalry'), from zeloun ('to be jealous of'). Zeal and jealous share a root — both involve intense feeling about something that matters.
Zeal rhymes with feel and real — zeal is a real, intense feeling that drives you forward.
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FAQ
Questions people ask
What is the adjective form of zeal?
Zealous. Example: She was a zealous student who read everything she could find on the subject.
What is the difference between zeal and enthusiasm?
Zeal is more intense and often linked to a cause or belief. Enthusiasm can be lighter and applied to anything you enjoy.