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enthusiasm

[en-thoo-zee-az-uhm] / ɛnˈθu ziˌæz əm /


Frequently Asked Questions

What is another word for enthusiasm?
Enthusiasm is lively interest or eagerness. Similar words are keenness and avidity, but their adjective forms are much more common: keen and avid (which are both synonyms for the adjective enthusiastic). To show enthusiasm about something is often to show excitement about it. In the context of enthusiasm for a topic, interest, or endeavor, even stronger words are passion and zeal. A more formal word is ardor. Someone who is considered to have too much enthusiasm for something might be described as overenthusiastic or overzealous. Such a person’s enthusiasm might be called obsessed. In a more colloquial sense, you might be a bit much.
What is the opposite (antonym) of enthusiasm?
The opposite of enthusiasm is a lack of enthusiasm. Someone or something that lacks enthusiasm can be described as unenthusiastic. There are a few terms that capture the same idea, including indifference, disinterest, and lack of interest.  Words that not only imply a lack of enthusiasm about something but also negativity toward it include aversion and disdain.
How do you use enthusiasm in a sentence?
Enthusiasm is a common word that’s used in a variety of contexts. Here are some examples of enthusiasm in a sentence:
  • The opening of the new restaurant was greeted with great enthusiasm.
  • I knew Dave was having a bad day when he didn’t have his usual enthusiasm at band practice.
  • Her false enthusiasm was very off-putting.

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.

Nvidia’s stock is finally on pace to notch a new record close — its first in nearly half a year — propelled by a fresh wave of enthusiasm for semiconductor stocks.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 24, 2026

Hyperscalers including Amazon, Microsoft and Meta have a growing demand for electricity to power massive data centers and manage AI processing, sparking enthusiasm for nuclear power.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 24, 2026

But if the stock’s recent gains suggest some AI enthusiasm is already baked into the share price, that doesn’t make Kinder Morgan’s dividend any less solid.

From Barron's • Apr. 23, 2026

However, Iran’s enthusiasm for the tournament seems to rise and fall based on the progress of negotiations to end the war, the first in history between a World Cup host and a qualified country.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 23, 2026

"Perhaps you could share your enthusiasm with the rest of us?"

From "City of the Plague God" by Sarwat Chadda




Vocabulary lists containing enthusiasm