Main Entry: en·thu·si·asm

Pronunciation: \in-ˈthü-zē-ˌa-zəm, en-, also -ˈthyü-\

Function: noun

Etymology: Greek enthousiasmos, from enthousiazein to be inspired, irregular from entheos inspired, from en- + theos god

Date: 1603

1 a : belief in special revelations of the Holy Spirit b : religious fanaticism
2 a : strong excitement of feeling : ardor <did her work with energy and enthusiasm> b : something inspiring zeal or fervor <his enthusiasms include sailing and fishing>

synonyms see passion