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.

So far, his low-key earnestness has struck a chord with the British public, with nearly 71% approving of him.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 11, 2026

The group’s aesthetic blends ’90s nostalgia and modern editing tricks, all delivered with a curious blend of camp and earnestness.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 28, 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

The first excitement was gone from the Row now and its place was taken by a deadly cumulative earnestness.

From "Cannery Row" by John Steinbeck

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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