In a manner showing keen interest, enthusiasm, or impatient desire for something. With great anticipation or excitement.
From Middle English 'egre' via Old French 'aigre' from Latin 'acer' meaning sharp or keen. The sense evolved from 'sharp' to 'keen in feeling' to 'enthusiastic' by the 14th century.
The journey from 'sharp' to 'enthusiastic' reflects how eagerness can feel like an acute, almost physical sensation - that sharp pang of anticipation that makes time crawl when you're waiting for something wonderful.
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