adjective
vehement
VEE-uh-muhnt/ˈviːəmənt/
showing very strong feeling or conviction
The man's vehement gesture emphasizes his strongly held point at the meeting.
Etymology
Latin vehemens described someone impetuous, ardent, or ‘carried away.’ That forceful quality survives in vehement feelings and convictions: the emphasis is on their intensity, not necessarily on physical violence.
In context
He was so vehement, and made so visible a sacrifice of his pride. Farmer Blae tried to pacify him, but it was useless. His jewel he must have.
More examples
- His suggestion draws vehement criticism from several parents.
- They remain vehement supporters of the new policy.
- I disagree, but I am surprised by her vehement response.
Forms
vehement
vehemence noun — great intensity of feeling or expression
vehemently adverb — with great force, passion, or conviction
Similar words
- emphatic
- Stresses clear, forceful expression rather than intensity of feeling.
- passionate
- Emphasizes deep emotion, not necessarily forceful expression or opposition.
- adamant
- Emphasizes refusal to change a position rather than emotional intensity.