zealous

[ zel-uhs ]

adjective

1. full of, characterized by, or due to zeal; ardently active, devoted, or diligent.

   Synonyms: warm, passionate, intense, fervent, fervid, eager, enthusiastic

   Antonyms: lackadaisical, apathetic

zealous

/ ˈzɛləs /

adjective

1. filled with or inspired by intense enthusiasm or zeal; ardent; fervent

Derived Forms

• ˈzealously, adverb
• ˈzealousness, noun

Other Words From

• zealous·ly adverb
• zealous·ness noun
• non·zealous adjective
• non·zealous·ly adverb
• non·zealous·ness noun
• under·zealous adjective
• under·zealous·ly adverb
• under·zealous·ness noun
• un·zealous adjective
• un·zealous·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of zealous¹

First recorded in 1520–30; from Medieval Latin zēlōsus; zeal, -ous

Example Sentences

Tanton was also drawing closer to Jared Taylor, whose writings about the superiority of white people had earned him a zealous following.

From Salon

It is perhaps not a coincidence that when Vi and Caitlyn finally consummate their relationship, the literal seduction is linked to Vi’s figurative succumbing to Caitlyn’s politics: She accepts the badge, with all of the raw emotion of a zealous new recruit to a supposedly noble cause.

From Salon

Their voice, opinions and world view would be extremely influential on an industry with such a devoted and zealous fanbase.

From BBC

By age 14, Becky G had reached a record deal with Kemosabe/RCA Records after uploading a zealous rap freestyle over Jay Z and Kanye West’s “Otis” beat on YouTube.

From Los Angeles Times

She remains a supporter, albeit a less zealous one.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• ardent
• avid
• dedicated
• earnest
• fanatical
• fervent
• impassioned
• passionate
• rabid