enthusiasm

en-thu-si-asm · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    Intense and eager enjoyment, interest, or approval.

  2. 2.

    A strong interest in or passion for a particular activity or subject.

  3. 3.

    (Archaic) Religious fervor or divine inspiration.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    with enthusiasm — eagerly, passionately
  • •
    dampen someone's enthusiasm — reduce their excitement
  • •
    boundless enthusiasm — unlimited energy and excitement
  • •
    curb one's enthusiasm — restrain excitement

Related words

Antonyms: apathy, disinterest, indifference
See also: enthusiastic, excitement, passion
Synonyms: eagerness, excitement, passion, zeal

Etymology

From Greek enthousiasmos ("divine inspiration"), from entheos ("possessed by a god"), from en- ("in") + theos ("god"). Originally referred to being inspired by a divine being.