Ardor | Definition of ardor by Merriam-Webster

Full Definition of ARDOR

1

a : an often restless or transitory warmth of feeling <the sudden ardors of youth>

b : extreme vigor or energy : intensity

c : zeal

d : loyalty

2

: sexual excitement

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Origin of ARDOR

Middle English ardour, from Anglo-French & Latin; Anglo-French, from Latin ardor burning, heat, ardor, from aridus dry — more at arid

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to ARDOR

Synonyms: ardency, emotion, enthusiasm, fervency, fervidness, fervor, fire, heat, intenseness, intensity, passion, passionateness, vehemence, violence, warmth, white heat

Antonyms: impassiveness, impassivity, insensibility, insensibleness, insensitiveness, insensitivity

Synonym Discussion of ARDOR

passion, fervor, ardor, enthusiasm, zeal mean intense emotion compelling action. passion applies to an emotion that is deeply stirring or ungovernable <was a slave to his passions>. fervor implies a warm and steady emotion <read the poem aloud with great fervor>. ardor suggests warm and excited feeling likely to be fitful or short-lived <the ardor of their honeymoon soon faded>. enthusiasm applies to lively or eager interest in or admiration for a proposal, cause, or activity <never showed much enthusiasm for sports>. zeal implies energetic and unflagging pursuit of an aim or devotion to a cause <preaches with fanatical zeal>.