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Synonym Chooser

How does the noun ardor differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of ardor are enthusiasm, fervor, passion, and zeal. While all these words mean "intense emotion compelling action," ardor suggests warm and excited feeling likely to be fitful or short-lived.

the ardor of their honeymoon soon faded

Where would enthusiasm be a reasonable alternative to ardor?

While the synonyms enthusiasm and ardor are close in meaning, enthusiasm applies to lively or eager interest in or admiration for a proposal, cause, or activity.

never showed much enthusiasm for sports

When is fervor a more appropriate choice than ardor?

The meanings of fervor and ardor largely overlap; however, fervor implies a warm and steady emotion.

read the poem aloud with great fervor

When is it sensible to use passion instead of ardor?

While in some cases nearly identical to ardor, passion applies to an emotion that is deeply stirring or ungovernable.

was a slave to his passions

When might zeal be a better fit than ardor?

The synonyms zeal and ardor are sometimes interchangeable, but zeal implies energetic and unflagging pursuit of an aim or devotion to a cause.

preaches with fanatical zeal

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of ardor Fearful of looking like bullies, Democrats by and large lost their ardor to block his confirmation. Michael Isikoff, airmail.news, 25 May 2024 Through thick and thin, a constant for McCann was his ardor for the Phillies, a club that has been in existence for over 140 years, winning a grand total — during that span — of two world championships. Matthew Carey, Deadline, 13 Dec. 2024 Killian’s reviews are brimming with genuine pleasure, and also a wonderment and ardor for the great variety of stuff on the Web site. Oscar Schwartz, The New Yorker, 27 Nov. 2024 The Wu-Tang Nike Dunks have developed a severe ardor in hip-hop culture, leading to a pioneering virality in sneaker culture. Ime Ekpo, Forbes, 26 Oct. 2024 See All Example Sentences for ardor
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ardor
Noun
  • The enthusiasm has spawned an industry that turns offal—a catchall term for an animal’s nonmuscular parts—into pill or powdered form.
    Valerie Trapp, The Atlantic, 17 Apr. 2025
  • Royals broadcaster Rex Hudler wears his heart on his sleeve when calling games, and his enthusiasm is evident to anyone who has tuned to FanDuel Sports Kansas City.
    Pete Grathoff, Kansas City Star, 15 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • To quench your thirst, order a pot of Moroccan mint tea and traditional Moroccan pastries at Le Terrasse des Èpices’ ground-floor pastry shop in Souk Cherifia.
    Asia London Palomba, Travel + Leisure, 12 Apr. 2025
  • And the thirst for improvement extends well beyond the quarterback.
    Mike Jones, New York Times, 11 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • His unique passions and experiences lead him to create works that truly resonate with his audience.
    Matt Emma, USA Today, 21 Apr. 2025
  • At age 14, Tom Schröder had no idea that his passion for sailing would lead him to an ocean odyssey spanning the globe.
    Katia Damborsky, Robb Report, 20 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • The Kp index — which provides a rough guide to the intensity of aurora displays — may reach 6, which will see the auroral oval stretch farther south.
    Jamie Carter, Forbes.com, 16 Apr. 2025
  • Within a few years, the intensity and demands of their big lives and careers brought new pressure — and problems for the couple.
    Liz McNeil, People.com, 16 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Down at the toe of Italy’s boot, lust hangs in the air.
    Sophie Gilbert, The Atlantic, 8 Apr. 2025
  • In this version, humanity’s lust for war has turned grim.
    Rob Wieland, Forbes.com, 4 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • More than fifty years ago, any semi-sentient being could recognize the dangers of forcing minors to work gruelling hours performing emotions for the delectation of large and unseen audiences, long before their brains had finished developing.
    Jessica Winter, New Yorker, 10 Apr. 2025
  • As the tribute was playing, the former Maverick was filled with emotions.
    Wayne Sterling, CNN Money, 9 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • From red hair and circular blush at Coachella to the resurrection of minimal manicures for Easter, this week’s celebrity beauty moments were all about warmth and length for spring.
    India Espy-Jones, Essence, 21 Apr. 2025
  • The conversation revealed Francis' characteristic warmth and accessibility, moving many participants to tears.
    Doc Louallen, ABC News, 21 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Ardor.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ardor. Accessed 24 Apr. 2025.

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