enthusiasm

[en-thoo-zee-az-uhm]

noun

1. absorbing or controlling possession of the mind by any interest or pursuit; lively interest.

   He shows marked enthusiasm for his studies.

   Synonyms: devotion, passion, ardor, zeal, fervor, warmth, eagerness
   Antonyms: indifference

2. an occupation, activity, or pursuit in which such interest is shown.

   Hunting is his latest enthusiasm.

3. any of various forms of extreme religious devotion, usually associated with intense emotionalism and a break with orthodoxy.

enthusiasm

/ ɪnˈθjuːzɪˌæzəm /

noun

1. ardent and lively interest or eagerness

2. an object of keen interest; passion

3. archaic,  extravagant or unbalanced religious fervour

4. obsolete,  possession or inspiration by a god

Other Word Forms

• antienthusiasm noun
• hyperenthusiasm noun
• overenthusiasm noun
• preenthusiasm noun
• unenthusiasm noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of enthusiasm¹

First recorded in 1570–80; from Late Latin enthūsiasmus, from Greek enthousiasmós, from enthousí(a) “possession by a god” ( énthous, variant of éntheos “having a god within,” from en- en- ² + -thous, -theos “possessed by a god” + -ia -y ³ ( def. ) ) + -asmos, variant (after vowel stems) of -ismos -ism; theism ( def. )

Word History and Origins

Origin of enthusiasm¹

C17: from Late Latin enthūsiasmus, from Greek enthousiasmos, from enthousiazein to be possessed by a god, from entheos inspired, from _en- ² + theos god

Example Sentences

All these years later, the response has apparently not dampened his enthusiasm for the idea.

From Salon

"Saudi Arabia is trying to be an entertainment centre, and things like this comedy festival really help. There's a lot of enthusiasm here, especially among young Saudis."

From BBC

But Shalhoub, best known these days as one of the stars of “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,” makes up for his lack of knowledge with utter enthusiasm.

From Los Angeles Times

Are you letting that enthusiasm sink in, or are you trying not to dance before you get into the end zone like Russ?

From Los Angeles Times

But greeted by a full house’s demonstratively embracing thankful enthusiasm, he beamed, the hesitant posture turning into ownership.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• ardor 
• devotion 
• eagerness 
• emotion 
• energy 
• feeling 
• fervor 
• frenzy 
• fury 
• intensity 
• interest 
• joy 
• passion 
• spirit 
• warmth 
• zeal