zeal meaning and definition

ZEAL noun

Definition of zeal (noun)

1. a feeling of strong eagerness (usually in favor of a person or cause)
   • "they were imbued with a revolutionary ardor"; "he felt a kind of religious zeal"
   • synonyms: ardor, ardour, elan
2. excessive fervor to do something or accomplish some end
   • "he had an absolute zeal for litigation"
3. prompt willingness
   • "readiness to continue discussions"; "they showed no eagerness to spread the gospel"; "they disliked his zeal in demonstrating his superiority"; "he tried to explain his forwardness in battle"
   • synonyms: eagerness, forwardness, readiness