zeal etymology

Etymology (Origin)

The word "zeal" originates from the Greek word "zēlos" (ζῆλος), which means "eagerness, rivalry, envy, ardour."

Meaning

Zeal is a strong feeling of enthusiasm, eagerness, and dedication towards a particular cause, belief, or goal. It often involves intense passion and determination. While zeal can be a positive attribute when directed towards worthy pursuits, it can also be seen as excessive or obsessive when taken to extremes.

Evolution of Meaning

The original Greek meaning of "zēlos" included both positive and negative connotations. It could refer to a healthy spirit of competition and striving, but it could also imply rivalry, jealousy, or even fanaticism. Over time, the term "zeal" has come to be associated primarily with its more positive aspects, emphasizing the enthusiasm and dedication required for achieving great things.

zeal relate terms

  • jealous

    Etymology and Meaning The word jealous comes from the Latin word zelosus which mean

  • zeal

    Etymology Origin The word zeal originates from the Greek word zēlos ζῆλος

  • zealous

    Etymology The word zealous comes from the Middle English word zealous borrowed from

  • zealot

    Etymology The word zealot comes from the Greek word zēlôtēs meaning imitator fo

  • zeal

    Etymology Origin The word zeal originates from the Greek word zēlos ζῆλος

  • zealous

    Etymology The word zealous comes from the Middle English word zealous borrowed from

  • zeal

    Etymology Origin The word zeal originates from the Greek word zēlos ζῆλος

  • jealous

    Etymology and Meaning The word jealous comes from the Latin word zelosus which mean

  • ardor

    Etymology Latin ardor Ultimately from Proto Indo European h₂wers to burn

  • alacrity

    Etymology The word alacrity comes from the Latin word alacris which means lively

  • orthopraxy

    Etymology Greek ortho right praxy practice Meaning Orthopraxy refers to

  • laches

    Etymology Old French from Anglo French from Old English lahhs slow sluggish lazy

  • perfunctory

    Etymology The word perfunctory originates from the Latin phrase per functus which m

  • industry

    Etymology The word industry is derived from the Latin word industria which means d

  • Mohammed

  • lean

    Etymology Derived from the Old English word hlænan meaning to lean or incline Ger

  • fire

    Etymology The word fire comes from the Old English fīr which is ultimately derived

  • rife

    Etymology The word rife comes from the Middle English word rife which in turn comes