zealous
ZEL-uhs
/ˈzel.əs/
Filled with or showing intense, energetic devotion to a cause or ideal.
Implies active, energetic effort; if taken to an extreme, it can cross into fanaticism.
The story behind the word. From Greek 'zelos' (ardor, zeal), which originally referred to passion and competitive fervor. During Roman Judea, the 'Zealots' were a Jewish political faction fiercely resisting Roman rule, giving the word its association with unyielding dedication.
Word relationships
- fervent: 'Fervent' stresses burning warmth of emotion, while 'zealous' stresses active, tireless pursuit.
- fanatical: 'Fanatical' is strictly negative, implying irrational devotion, whereas 'zealous' can be positive or neutral.
- apathetic: Showing or feeling no interest, enthusiasm, or concern.
- indifferent: Unconcerned and lack of enthusiasm.
Commonly confused with
- jealous: 'Jealous' means envious of another's belongings or status, whereas 'zealous' means passionately enthusiastic about a cause.
Word family
- zeal (noun): Great energy or enthusiasm in pursuit of a cause.
- zealot (noun): A person who is fanatical and uncompromising in pursuit of ideals.
- zealously (adverb): With great enthusiasm and passion.
Collocations
- zealous advocate
- zealous effort
- zealous defender
- overly zealous
Example sentences
- "The zealous young prosecutor was determined to eliminate corruption from city hall." Reform initiatives
- "Zealous advocates for civil rights marched tirelessly across the country." Historical analysis
Memory hook
Zealous sounds like 'seal-us': a zealous worker puts their seal on every task with total passion. Fiery energy for a cause.
When not to use
Do not confuse with 'jealous', which means envious of someone else.
Fun facts
- The word 'jealous' actually shares the exact same Greek ancestor ('zelos') as 'zealous'!
Related words
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