Definitions

earnestness

[ur-nist-nis] / ˈɜr nɪst nɪs /

NOUN

determination; seriousness

Synonyms

STRONGEST

ardor devotion enthusiasm fervor firmness intensity sincerity solemnity tenacity urgency warmth zeal

STRONG

absorption attentiveness concentration decision deliberation doggedness eagerness engrossment gravity intentness keenness passion perseverance persistence purposefulness resolution resolve serious-mindedness sobriety stress vehemence

Antonyms

STRONGEST

apathy coldness coolness indifference lethargy weakness

STRONG

idleness indecision indolence question unimportance wavering

WEAK

flippancy insincerity

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Mattammal said he’s focused on curriculum, job readiness, data collection and analysis and on promoting innovation, although all the candidates would assert earnestness in these arenas.

From Los Angeles Times • May 1, 2026

The earnestness transferred into the character and lifted it.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 18, 2026

The group’s aesthetic blends ’90s nostalgia and modern editing tricks, all delivered with a curious blend of camp and earnestness.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 28, 2026

That’s not to say that the movie feels disingenuous; it’s brimming with earnestness, but fervor can be easily mistaken for fanfare.

From Salon • Nov. 7, 2025

I even like his earnestness, despite the fact that I usually hate earnestness.

From "The Sun Is Also a Star" by Nicola Yoon

Vocabulary lists containing earnestness

The Devil's Arithmetic

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Dracula

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Lee Surrenders to Grant (1865)

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