noun
zeal
ZEEL/ziːl/
Great enthusiasm and dedication for a cause or goal.
She brings tireless zeal to her work protecting local forests.
Etymology
Greek zēlos included eager rivalry and emulation, not just enthusiasm. That ardor carries into zeal as passionate energy directed toward an objective or cause.
In context
Despite his success in conducting, the violin remained his true passion. He never lost his zeal for performing, continuing to grace stages around the world
More examples
- His zeal for reform inspires the entire committee.
- In her zeal to help, she takes on too much.
- The volunteers tackle every cleanup project with zeal.
Forms
zeal
zealous adjective — Showing eager dedication to a cause.
Similar words
- enthusiasm
- Emphasizes strong excitement or interest rather than sustained dedication.
- fervor
- Emphasizes intense feeling, often in religious or political causes.
- dedication
- Emphasizes steady commitment and effort rather than eager excitement.