Zealous
/ˈzɛl.əs/noun
Having or showing zeal; passionate or fervent.
Did you know?The term 'zealous' comes from the Greek word for 'jealous', often implying a fervor that can border on obsessive devotion in religious contexts.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
ζῆλος (zēlos)
“A passionate pursuit or fervor, often in a religious or competitive sense.”
Late Latin
Latin
zelosus
“Full of zeal or fervor; characterized by intense enthusiasm.”
Early Middle English
Old French
zelous
“Characterized by zeal; showing fervent devotion.”
15th Century
Middle English
zealous
“Having an ardent or passionate commitment, particularly to a cause.”
Modern English
English
zealous
“Marked by fervent support or interest, often with intense emotional involvement.”