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

Fisher said that while there was clearly "enthusiasm" for the party from the public, the infighting may push some potential supporters towards the Green Party instead.

From BBC

Evincing a rugged, hands-on attitude marked by curiosity and enthusiasm about the work, Redford embodied a philosophy for Sundance that was clear from its earliest days.

From Los Angeles Times

Foster’s pillars of discipline, respect and enthusiasm clearly never took hold given his players’ repeated penalties, lagging preparation for lesser opponents and lack of passion on the sideline.

From Los Angeles Times

The free T-shirts usually doled out with abandon to whip up enthusiasm are more limited.

From BBC

"The enthusiasm surrounding the tournament has been incredible, with support growing across the country. We know Bristol will be no different, and the girls are relishing the opportunity to rise to the occasion."

From BBC

Related Words

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