enthusiasm

Definition

Intensity of feeling; excited interest or eagerness.

Etymology

First attested from 1603, from Middle French enthousiasme, from Late Latin enthusiasmus, from Ancient Greek ἐνθουσιασμός (enthousiasmós), from ἐν (en, “in”) + θεός (theós, “god”) + οὐσία (ousía, “essence”).

Example Sentences

• "Try to curb your enthusiasm."
• "They have a great enthusiasm for country music."
• "By the end of this period pupils are expected to be reading simple books independently and with enthusiasm."

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