Definitions

earnestness

[ur-nist-nis] / ˈɜr nɪst nɪs /

NOUN

determination; seriousness

Synonyms

STRONGEST

ardor devotion enthusiasm fervor firmness intensity sincerity solemnity tenacity urgency warmth zeal

STRONG

absorption attentiveness concentration decision deliberation doggedness eagerness engrossment gravity intentness keenness passion perseverance persistence purposefulness resolution resolve serious-mindedness sobriety stress vehemence

Antonyms

STRONGEST

apathy coldness coolness indifference lethargy weakness

STRONG

idleness indecision indolence question unimportance wavering

WEAK

flippancy insincerity

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

I arrived at Columbia in my 30s with the earnestness of a convert.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 2, 2026

The earnestness transferred into the character and lifted it.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 18, 2026

Heusinger’s James has a seductive earnestness that conceals some shocking character developments.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 18, 2025

Over time, however, they found that their partner became more caring when they maintained key traits like earnestness and an affinity for art.

From Slate • Sep. 25, 2025

She spoke with the earnestness that only a teen ager could truly have.

From "Little Fires Everywhere" by Celeste Ng

Vocabulary lists containing earnestness

The Devil's Arithmetic

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Dracula

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Lee Surrenders to Grant (1865)

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