Zealous
Fans, activists, and new converts share a glow that can inspire people or alarm them, and this adjective catches that heat without pretending it is chill.
Learn This WordMeaning
Having or showing great energy or enthusiasm in pursuit of a cause or objective.
Memory trick
Think "ZEAL-OUS" = "ZEAL (enthusiasm) + US", zealous people have zeal/enthusiasm in them. Or "Z-JEALOUS", so enthusiastic it's almost jealousy-level intense.
Examples
She was a zealous advocate for environmental protection.
The team's zealous fans traveled across the country to support them.
His zealous pursuit of perfection sometimes alienated his colleagues.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Etymology
From Greek zelos "zeal, ardor, jealousy," related to zein "to boil."
Usage Notes
Can be positive (showing admirable dedication) or negative (suggesting excessive enthusiasm or fanaticism).
Real-life contexts
Describe enthusiasm: "She's zealous about environmental causes."
Use cautiously: "His zealous approach sometimes overwhelms people."
Praise dedication: "The team's zealous effort paid off."
Common Mistakes
Zealous can have negative connotations when it implies excessive or blind enthusiasm.
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Part of Speech
adjective
Difficulty
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