Pronunciation

(US) IPA: /ziːl/

(US) SAMPA: /zi:l/

Noun

zeal (uncountable)

1. Enthusiasm; powerful interest.

M. Le Page Du Pratz, History of Louisisana (PG), p. 47

I know it is no easy matter so to deepen or hollow the channel of a bar, that it may never after need clearing, and that the expences run high: but my zeal for promoting the advantage of this colony having prompted me to make reflections on those passes, or entrances of the Missisippi, [sic] and being perfectly well acquainted both with the country and the nature of the soil, I dare flatter myself, I may be able to accomplish it, to the great benefit of the province, and acquit myself therein with honour, at a small charge, and in a manner not to need repetition.

Etymology

mid-14c., from L. zelus "zeal, emulation," a Church word, from Gk. zelos "zeal, ardor , jealousy." Zealous first recorded 1535 .

Translations

• Arabic: حماس
• Catalan: zel m
• Dutch: ijver m, geestdrift m
• Finnish: into, intohimo
• French: zèle m, assiduité f
• German: Eifer m, Begeisterung f
• Swedish: iver c

Related terms

• jealous
• jealousy
• zealous