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 But the growing fervor for sardines hinges on something more superficial, literally and figuratively. Rebecca Firkser, Bon Appetit Magazine, 11 June 2026 But something about the telecasts from the 2022 World Cup in Qatar kept drawing him back, the passion, the nationalism, the fervor, the intensity, the jubilation, the humanity. Mark Zeigler, San Diego Union-Tribune, 10 June 2026 Now, though, the games and the fan fervor take over. Greg Cote june 10, Miami Herald, 10 June 2026 All of that has helped fuel the city’s fervor for the Knicks and turned Games 3 and 4 at the Garden into the hottest tickets in town. Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 8 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for fervor
Recent Examples of Synonyms for fervor
Noun
  • For much of her defining run, Lizzo was emblematic of an idyllic extramusical experiment, her songs a wellspring for yas queen enthusiasm.
    Sheldon Pearce, NPR, 16 June 2026
  • The Tartan Army of 2026 has journeyed to America with similar enthusiasm, and unrealistic expectations have been loaded upon the shoulders of McTominay.
    Ed Caesar, New Yorker, 16 June 2026
Noun
  • Ancelotti pointed out that a number of underdogs at this year’s World Cup have been showing great intensity.
    Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 19 June 2026
  • Two standoffs end without suspect in custody After two standoffs — one Tuesday and another overnight into Wednesday morning — police have come up empty, and the intensity of the search is rising.
    Laura Bauer June 18, Kansas City Star, 18 June 2026
Noun
  • Calmus said the uncertainty and emotions that come with having a newborn in intensive care can be difficult to navigate.
    Dillon Thomas, CBS News, 20 June 2026
  • Clinical psychologists Hillary Halpern and Maureen Perry-Jenkins documented that the transition from single life to fatherhood is often accompanied by a roller coaster of emotions.
    Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 19 June 2026
Noun
  • Everything that had made her herself — the warmth, the animals, the cousins who stayed behind — was suddenly gone.
    Seth Abramovitch, HollywoodReporter, 17 June 2026
  • The nurturing Moon enters your sign, lighting your 1st House of Identity, so your natural warmth and creativity feel easier to share without overthinking.
    Tarot.com, Chicago Tribune, 17 June 2026
Noun
  • Riemenschneider complimented the cleanliness and the family’s passion, Unlu said.
    Bud Kennedy, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 20 June 2026
  • Both fandoms known for their unmatched passion and energy.
    Andrew Greif, NBC news, 20 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Fervor.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fervor. Accessed 21 Jun. 2026.

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