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Synonyms

vehemence

American  
[vee-uh-muhns] / ˈvi ə məns /
Sometimes vehemency

noun

  1. the quality of being vehement; ardor; fervor.

    Synonyms:
    fervency, enthusiasm, zeal, verve, eagerness
    Antonyms:
    apathy
  2. vigorous impetuosity; fury.

    the vehemence of his attack.

    Synonyms:
    passion
    Antonyms:
    apathy

Other Word Forms


Etymology

Origin of vehemence

1520–30; < Latin vehementia; see vehement, -ence


Explanation

Something with vehemence is forceful and energetic. If you passionately believe that your neighbor is mistreating his dog, speak to him with vehemence. Vehemence is the quality of being vehement, or powerful. We often describe passionate speeches as having vehemence. You could also describe a violent natural event as vehement. A hurricane sweeps onto coastal land with destructive vehemence. If your dancing style is wild and involves throwing your limbs every which way as fast as possible, then you dance with vehemence.

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Vocabulary lists containing vehemence

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

So I deal with what comes with the greatest vehemence at me.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 16, 2026

The chief justice called the vehemence of the dissent “disturbing.”

From Washington Times ● Oct. 1, 2023

Still, the vehemence of the opposition to the Qingdao partnership surprised the Kiel City Council president, Hans-Werner Tovar, who oversaw the start of partnerships with two other cities.

From New York Times ● May 10, 2023

There can surely be no doubt of the vehemence with which Wales will attack England in their third game of the 2023 Six Nations.

From BBC ● Feb. 24, 2023

I’m surprised by the vehemence in his voice.

From "Dread Nation" by Justina Ireland

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