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
She pursued the project with remarkable zeal and dedication.
His zeal for justice made him an effective advocate.
The volunteers worked with great zeal to prepare for the event.
Synonyms
Antonyms
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.