Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for enthusiasm. Search instead for overenthusiasm.
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.

His longstanding enthusiasm for high-performance engineering led him to serve on the boards of Ducati and Lamborghini.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

Employees across sectors ranging from law to marketing to academia told me this enthusiasm often isn’t backed up by a thorough understanding of the tools.

From Slate • Apr. 9, 2026

The enthusiasm around CoreWeave’s new deal with Meta Platforms has already faded.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 9, 2026

Today our exploration of space is engaging not only our enthusiasm but our patriotism.

From Salon • Apr. 7, 2026

Jefferson’s enthusiasm for the French Revolution, despite its wild and bloody excesses, pushed Adams over the edge.

From "Founding Brothers: The Revolutionary Generation" by Joseph J. Ellis

Vocabulary lists containing enthusiasm

Emotions on Display

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

"The Drummer Boy of Shiloh"

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

"Principles of Business," Vocabulary from Chapter 9

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!