Definition Definition

earnest - Meaning and Examples

Meaning of 'earnest' (Webster Dictionary)

1 . Earnest [ a.]
- Ardent in the pursuit of an object; eager to obtain or do; zealous with sincerity; with hearty endeavor; heartfelt; fervent; hearty; -- used in a good sense; as, earnest prayers.
- Intent; fixed closely; as, earnest attention.
- Serious; important.
2 . Earnest [ n.]
- Seriousness; reality; fixed determination; eagerness; intentness.
- Something given, or a part paid beforehand, as a pledge; pledge; handsel; a token of what is to come.
- Something of value given by the buyer to the seller, by way of token or pledge, to bind the bargain and prove the sale.
3 . Earnest [ v. t.]
- To use in earnest.

Meaning of 'earnest' (Princeton's WordNet)

1 . earnest [ s]
Meaning (1):
- characterized by a firm and humorless belief in the validity of your opinions
Example in sentence:
  • a film with a solemn social message;
  • an entirely sincere and cruel tyrant;
  • both sides were deeply in earnest, even passionate
Meaning (2):
- sincerely earnest
Example in sentence:
  • devout wishes for their success;
  • heartfelt condolences;
  • one's dearest wish