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Showing results for enthusiasm. Search instead for enthusiasm/2.
Definitions

enthusiasm

[en-thoo-zee-az-uhm] / ɛnˈθu ziˌæz əm /
NOUN
keen interest, excitement
Synonyms
STRONGEST
ardor devotion eagerness emotion energy feeling fervor frenzy fury intensity interest joy passion spirit warmth zeal
STRONG
activity avidity conviction craze dash earnestness ecstasy exhilaration fad fanaticism fever fieriness fire flame flare gaiety glow go heat hilarity hobby impetuosity joyfulness keenness life mania mirth nerve oomph orgasm pep rapture relish snap transport vehemence verve vim vivacity zest
WEAK
ardency red heat zealousness élan
Antonyms
STRONGEST
apathy calm calmness coolness disinterest inactivity indifference laziness lethargy peace
STRONG
depression dislike dullness frigidity hate hatred lifelessness sadness unhappiness
WEAK
aloofness coldness doubt pessimism weariness

Frequently Asked Questions

What is another word for enthusiasm?
Enthusiasm is lively interest or eagerness. Similar words are keenness and avidity, but their adjective forms are much more common: keen and avid (which are both synonyms for the adjective enthusiastic). To show enthusiasm about something is often to show excitement about it. In the context of enthusiasm for a topic, interest, or endeavor, even stronger words are passion and zeal. A more formal word is ardor. Someone who is considered to have too much enthusiasm for something might be described as overenthusiastic or overzealous. Such a person’s enthusiasm might be called obsessed. In a more colloquial sense, you might be a bit much.
What is the opposite (antonym) of enthusiasm?
The opposite of enthusiasm is a lack of enthusiasm. Someone or something that lacks enthusiasm can be described as unenthusiastic. There are a few terms that capture the same idea, including indifference, disinterest, and lack of interest.  Words that not only imply a lack of enthusiasm about something but also negativity toward it include aversion and disdain.
How do you use enthusiasm in a sentence?
Enthusiasm is a common word that’s used in a variety of contexts. Here are some examples of enthusiasm in a sentence:
  • The opening of the new restaurant was greeted with great enthusiasm.
  • I knew Dave was having a bad day when he didn’t have his usual enthusiasm at band practice.
  • Her false enthusiasm was very off-putting.

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.

A renewed enthusiasm for nuclear power is palpable in Europe:

From BBC • Apr. 3, 2026

Nacua became known for his infectious enthusiasm and ability to catch almost anything Rams MVP quarterback Matthew Stafford threw his way.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 2, 2026

OpenAI has secured the largest private financing in Silicon Valley’s history with commitments of $122 billion in new funding that could boost enthusiasm about artificial intelligence and the technology sector more generally.

From Barron's • Apr. 1, 2026

This enthusiasm seems to have made Graham an easy target for his colleagues.

From Slate • Apr. 1, 2026

The bounding dog greeted him with an explosion of enthusiasm that almost knocked the box out of his hand.

From "Jeremy Thatcher, Dragon Hatcher" by Bruce Coville

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.