earnest

ear-nest · adjective

imported

Definitions

adjective

  1. 1.

    Showing sincere and intense conviction; serious in intention.

  2. 2.

    (noun) A sign or promise of what is to come; a pledge.

  3. 3.

    (phrase) "in earnest" - with sincere intention; seriously.

Related words

Antonyms: flippant, frivolous, insincere
See also: earnestly, earnestness, sincere
Synonyms: genuine, serious, sincere, solemn

Etymology

From Old English eornost meaning "seriousness, vigor." Related to Old High German ernust (seriousness). The phrase "in earnest" dates from the 14th century.