Definition of enthusiasmnext
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Synonym Chooser

How does the noun enthusiasm differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of enthusiasm are ardor, fervor, passion, and zeal. While all these words mean "intense emotion compelling action," enthusiasm applies to lively or eager interest in or admiration for a proposal, cause, or activity.

never showed much enthusiasm for sports

When would ardor be a good substitute for enthusiasm?

While in some cases nearly identical to enthusiasm, ardor suggests warm and excited feeling likely to be fitful or short-lived.

the ardor of their honeymoon soon faded

When might fervor be a better fit than enthusiasm?

The synonyms fervor and enthusiasm are sometimes interchangeable, but fervor implies a warm and steady emotion.

read the poem aloud with great fervor

When could passion be used to replace enthusiasm?

While the synonyms passion and enthusiasm are close in meaning, passion applies to an emotion that is deeply stirring or ungovernable.

was a slave to his passions

Where would zeal be a reasonable alternative to enthusiasm?

The words zeal and enthusiasm are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, zeal implies energetic and unflagging pursuit of an aim or devotion to a cause.

preaches with fanatical zeal

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of enthusiasm Trump’s enthusiasm for deals with Xi has often seemed to exceed his commitment to Taiwan’s security. Bobby Ghosh, Time, 6 Jan. 2026 Collaborating with the Catalina Museum team was also a highlight; their openness, care and enthusiasm played a vital role in bringing this vision fully to life. Michael James Rocha, San Diego Union-Tribune, 4 Jan. 2026 In her short time as an agent, Conner has demonstrated enthusiasm and a dedication to growth and service. Kansas City Star, 2 Jan. 2026 The rainfall appeared to dampen enthusiasm for the 2026 Rose Parade somewhat, as the crowds that begin filling Pasadena sidewalks hours before Thursday’s procession were smaller than in years prior. Jeanette Marantos, Los Angeles Times, 1 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for enthusiasm
Recent Examples of Synonyms for enthusiasm
Noun
  • These latests features are designed for enterprises who want to integrate their AI technology with either existing Salesforce data or even their own data.
    Gene Marks, Forbes.com, 7 Sep. 2025
  • The latests deaths included three residents of long-term care facilities in Dallas, as well as a Balch Springs man in his 20s and a Dallas man in his 60s.
    Dana Branham, Dallas News, 30 Apr. 2020
Noun
  • The loss of fluids and electrolytes can cause lightheadedness, excessive thirst, and muscle cramps.
    Pamela Assid Woughter, Verywell Health, 9 Jan. 2026
  • That factors out to more than $11 million per year to slake a terrestrial data center’s thirst.
    Jeffrey Kluger, Time, 7 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • That small body swathed like a mummy, our blind flight over the treetops, the prospect of disappearing in the middle of the jungle without a trace—all this converged to focus a singular intensity on the moment.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 12 Jan. 2026
  • Each level represents a different pain intensity from no pain at all to mild, moderate, severe, etc.
    Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 11 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Dunkin' is embracing the public's protein craze.
    Katie Hill, PEOPLE, 7 Jan. 2026
  • From the latest snack craze to viral weeknight dinners, loyal Aldi shoppers are always on top of the freshest food trends, with the grocer stocking its shelves with new products all the time.
    Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 6 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • While the series concluded with its second season in May, Luna opened up to PEOPLE ahead of the 2022 premiere about the excitement of being a part of the Star Wars universe.
    Liza Esquibias, PEOPLE, 12 Jan. 2026
  • Pickleball enthusiasts expressed excitement that indoor courts would be opening but opponents worried other community events that were once held at the site would be forced out like arts and crafts show, roller derby, the Rosie the Riveter festival and Fourth of July celebrations.
    Sierra Lopez, Mercury News, 11 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • The Carolina Panthers saw their season come to an end in a way that tugged on all sorts of emotions — after a game that was equal parts thrilling and blissful and heartbreaking.
    Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 11 Jan. 2026
  • Videos of the incident have sparked widespread emotion and anger.
    Briseida Holguin, CBS News, 11 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • The pants are loose from the thighs to the hems, giving you room to move while still keeping the shape on-trend.
    Michelle Rostamian, PEOPLE, 9 Jan. 2026
  • Why Shop With Us Alison Syrett Cleary is an editor and writer with over 10 years of experience covering fashion trends.
    Alison Syrett Cleary, InStyle, 9 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • McLaughlin added that especially in Charlotte, there was an appetite to celebrate the film with around eight screenings in the Queen City alone.
    Zach Dennis, Charlotte Observer, 8 Jan. 2026
  • Previous research has also suggested that long-term high-fat diets can disrupt how the gut and brain communicate, affecting appetite, mood and metabolism, Fox News Digital previously reported.
    Deirdre Bardolf, FOXNews.com, 7 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Enthusiasm.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/enthusiasm. Accessed 13 Jan. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on enthusiasm

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