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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 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 What’s positive in its passionate abstractions is the sense of three-dimensionality, of musical schemas that have the open airiness of modern architecture, the introspective ardor of thought under construction. Richard Brody, The New Yorker, 26 Aug. 2024 See All Example Sentences for ardor
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ardor
Noun
  • The Rage Against the Machine guitarist sat in for the two-song encore, but the focus was entirely on one of the great rock & roll catalogs, delivered with an enthusiasm that few musicians nearing 80 years old could muster.
    Stephen Thomas Erlewine, Rolling Stone, 12 Mar. 2025
  • Whatever the interest, Poway Stamp Club members are available to help others develop an enthusiasm for the hobby.
    Julie Gallant, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • The track finds Rocky taking a lyrical jab at former affiliates of his crew, attributing their conduct to their own thirst for success and fame.
    Preezy Brown, VIBE.com, 17 Mar. 2025
  • Wayne took out an ad of his own, distancing himself as much as possible from Wills' thirst.
    Lester Fabian Brathwaite, EW.com, 2 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • With passion, the filmmakers expose the lasting imprints of colonialism while celebrating activism and the fight of two female friends for truly accessible public spaces; places where people can engage with their own narratives and histories.
    Matthew Carey, Deadline, 16 Mar. 2025
  • This shift means more opportunities for students to pursue their passions and build meaningful careers.
    Scott White, Forbes, 16 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • The green, figgy freshness cuts through the intensity of Extradose’s vanilla and rum, creating a fascinating contrast that feels both sophisticated and playful.
    Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 28 Feb. 2025
  • The gel-like texture goes on sheer but allows for buildable intensity—with color pairings ranging from a soft pink and caramel to a rich berry and chocolate combo.
    Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 27 Feb. 2025
Noun
  • Her own relationship to religion forced her to contend with an inclination toward stifling (or at least judging) normal feelings of yearning and lust.
    Amanda Petrusich, The New Yorker, 17 Mar. 2025
  • Then again, lust in music, art and literature is one of Vienna’s great gifts to the world.
    Mark Swed, Los Angeles Times, 15 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • Instead of resisting their feelings of self-doubt, professionals who lean into these emotions may develop stronger interpersonal skills, outperforming their non-imposter peers in collaboration and teamwork.
    Tanya Arturi, Forbes, 18 Mar. 2025
  • Does the watering coincide with extreme emotions or stress?
    Maxine Lipner, Verywell Health, 18 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • These sheets will remind you of your favorite T-shirt and wrap you up in comfort and lightweight warmth.
    Nora Colomer, Fox News, 15 Mar. 2025
  • So, when Frank decided to retire in the early 1970s, Patricia Haupt had one demand — warmth.
    Bill Center, San Diego Union-Tribune, 13 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Ardor.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ardor. Accessed 26 Mar. 2025.

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