Entheos
/ɛnˈθiː.ɒs/noun
A Greek adjective meaning inspired or possessed by a god; later used in English for intense divine enthusiasm.
Did you know?In ancient Greek, *entheos* described a person filled with a god’s presence or power, and it gave English the deeper idea behind words like *enthusiasm*—originally a kind of sacred possession.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
ἔνθεος (entheos)
“Inspired, possessed by a god, or filled with divine presence”
Late Greek
Greek
ἐνθουσιασμός (enthousiasmos)
“Possession or inspiration by a god; ecstatic fervor”
16th Century
English
enthusiasm
“Religious fervor or divine inspiration”
Modern English
English
enthusiasm
“Intense and eager interest or excitement”
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