vehemence

noun

ve·​he·​mence ˈvē-ə-mən(t)s 

: the quality or state of being vehement : intensity

Synonyms

• aggressiveness
• assertiveness
• emphasis
• fierceness
• forcefulness
• intenseness
• intensity
• vigorousness
• violence

Examples of vehemence in a Sentence

the vehemence in her voice when she insisted that she never gossiped surprised me

every cause that she pursues is pursued with great vehemence

Recent Examples on the Web

The unusual vehemence of city parkers could have something to do with the fact that circling for a spot produces a hormonal response similar to being at war. —Zach Helfand, New Yorker, 5 May 2025

The PiS is tightening its political grip, and the opposition has responded with increasing vehemence—all while a health crisis gains ground and an economic one looms. —Marta Figlerowicz, Foreign Affairs, 13 May 2020

There has been a vehemence, a ferocity, even a kind of rage to his conduct that transcends the mere pursuit of vengeance. —Varad Mehta, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 7 Mar. 2025

The vehemence of the opposition to programs that fight discrimination against minorities proves why they are needed. —Orlando Sentinel and South Florida Sun Sentinel Editorial Boards, Orlando Sentinel, 28 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English vemance, vehemens, borrowed from Middle French vehemence, borrowed from Latin vehementia "violent movement, intensity," from vehement-, vehemens "violent, vehement" + -ia -ia entry 1

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

vehemence

noun

ve·​he·​mence ˈvē-ə-mən(t)s 

: the quality or state of being vehement