Enthusiasm

/ɛnˈθuziˌæzəm/ noun

Definition

A strong feeling of excitement, interest, or eagerness about something.

Etymology

From Greek *enthousiasmos* ('possessed by a god, inspired'), from *enthous* ('possessed') from *en* ('in') + *theos* ('god'). It originally suggested divine inspiration or madness.

Kelly Says

Enthusiasm once meant being so inspired it was like a god had jumped inside you. Even now, someone truly enthusiastic looks a bit 'possessed'—their energy spills out and infects everyone nearby.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.