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noun Uncommon

zeal

zeel

Zeal (noun) means Strong, energetic enthusiasm for a cause, goal, or belief. Example: “She pursued the project with real zeal, working late every night.”

noun
1
Strong, energetic enthusiasm for a cause, goal, or belief.
"She pursued the project with real zeal, working late every night."
"His zeal for the campaign never faded, even after the setbacks."

How to use zeal

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishPassionate energy and dedication toward something you care about.

Easily confused with
Common pairings
religious zeal zeal for reform missionary zeal pursue with zeal

Word forms

zeals plural

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She pursued the project with real _____, working late every night.

Etymology

From Old French zel, ultimately from Greek zēlos ("zeal, jealousy") — the same root that gives us "zealous" and "jealous."

Origin: Old French

Related words

Rhymes for zeal

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Frequently asked questions

What does “zeal” mean?

The word “zeal” means strong, energetic enthusiasm for a cause, goal, or belief. In plain terms, passionate energy and dedication toward something you care about.

How do you pronounce “zeal”?

“Zeal” is pronounced zeel (/zil/ in IPA).

How do you use “zeal” in a sentence?

Here is “zeal” used in a sentence: “She pursued the project with real zeal, working late every night.”

What part of speech is “zeal”?

“Zeal” is a noun.

Where does the word “zeal” come from?

The word “zeal” comes from Old French. From Old French zel, ultimately from Greek zēlos ("zeal, jealousy") — the same root that gives us "zealous" and "jealous.".

Is “zeal” a common word?

“Zeal” is an uncommon word in modern English.

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Definitions: FreeDict original editorial