Definition of fervornext

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun fervor differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of fervor are ardor, enthusiasm, passion, and zeal. While all these words mean "intense emotion compelling action," fervor implies a warm and steady emotion.

read the poem aloud with great fervor

When could ardor be used to replace fervor?

In some situations, the words ardor and fervor are roughly equivalent. However, ardor suggests warm and excited feeling likely to be fitful or short-lived.

the ardor of their honeymoon soon faded

When might enthusiasm be a better fit than fervor?

The words enthusiasm and fervor can be used in similar contexts, but enthusiasm applies to lively or eager interest in or admiration for a proposal, cause, or activity.

never showed much enthusiasm for sports

When is it sensible to use passion instead of fervor?

The meanings of passion and fervor largely overlap; however, passion applies to an emotion that is deeply stirring or ungovernable.

was a slave to his passions

When would zeal be a good substitute for fervor?

While in some cases nearly identical to fervor, 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 fervor The notion clearly motivates Cardenas, instilling in him a sense of fervor and urgency. James Vincent, Harpers Magazine, 30 Dec. 2025 The release of ChatGPT in late 2022 drove a fervor that carried the S & P 500 up 24% in 2023, 23% in 2024 and, to date, more than 17% in 2025. Sarah Min, CNBC, 30 Dec. 2025 Ann Lee embraces this practice with the fervor of a true believer. David Fear, Rolling Stone, 26 Dec. 2025 Likewise, Schnapp repeated the lengthy speech several times with the same fervor when the cameras were focused on coverage of everyone else. Katie Campione, Deadline, 25 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for fervor
Recent Examples of Synonyms for fervor
Noun
  • Pre-festival enthusiasm sagged compared to the inaugural year.
    Théoden Janes, Charlotte Observer, 8 Jan. 2026
  • More energy and enthusiasm There were too many times in the first few months of the season when this team looked lethargic.
    Jonas Siegel, New York Times, 7 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • Their weakness is an inability to maintain a consistent intensity throughout an entire game.
    Andy Jones, New York Times, 9 Nov. 2025
  • The country’s meteorological agency PAGASA upgraded the storm to a super typhoon on its intensity scale, recording maximum wind speeds of 185 kph (115 mph) and gusts of 230 kph (143 mph).
    Laura Sharman, CNN Money, 8 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • The Mercury retrograde that backstrokes in Pisces from February 26 to March 20 makes our emotions extremely tender.
    Lisa Stardust, Refinery29, 7 Nov. 2025
  • During her interview with host Jimmy Fallon, Lawrence was jokingly overcome with emotion and broke into dramatic sobs multiple times.
    Gabrielle Rockson, PEOPLE, 7 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • Featuring three layers of high-density memory foam, the slippers also provide support that’s comfortable enough for all-day wear—not just warmth.
    Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Nov. 2025
  • Despite its lightweight feel, the crew neckline and long sleeves provide cozy warmth, especially when buttoned up over a tank top or T-shirt.
    Nicol Natale, PEOPLE, 8 Nov. 2025
Noun
  • Eventually, his parents surrendered to his passion for figure skating.
    Marcus Thompson II, New York Times, 7 Jan. 2026
  • Collegial car vibes For many of the program’s students, the schooling offers a chance to professionalize their passion.
    Daniel Miller, Los Angeles Times, 6 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Fervor.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fervor. Accessed 11 Jan. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on fervor

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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