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Synonyms

zealotry

American  
[zel-uh-tree] / ˈzɛl ə tri /

noun

  1. undue or excessive zeal; fanaticism.


ˈzealotry British  
/ ˈzɛlətrɪ /

noun

  1. extreme or excessive zeal or devotion

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of zealotry

First recorded in 1650–60; zealot + -ry

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.

Amanda Seyfried, nominated in Byrne’s category, is the 18th century title character in “The Testament of Ann Lee,” who turns the trauma of losing four children into religious zealotry.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 12, 2026

Molina, the embodiment of theatrical excellence, is perfectly cast as the rational counterpoise to Brady’s zealotry.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 7, 2023

His zealotry isn't motivated by a need to do the right thing – he wants to succeed, and therefore rise.

From Salon • Sep. 23, 2022

We will all have to live with the catastrophic results of their zealotry.

From New York Times • May 14, 2022

I couldn’t tell if she was angry or excited—her zealotry managed to cover pretty much all the emotional bases.

From "Made You Up" by Francesca Zappia