# zealous

/ˈzɛɫəs/ (US) · /zˈɛləs/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/zealous
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

very eager and enthusiastic about something. You use this to describe someone who works hard and cares deeply about their job or beliefs.

For teachers: characterised by intense enthusiasm, eagerness, or devotion. Often used to describe a person's attitude toward a cause, a profession, or a set of beliefs.

## Examples

- She is a zealous supporter of the local football team.
- The zealous lawyer worked through the night to prepare for the morning's hearing.
- A zealous commitment to the project eventually led to burnout, as the team neglected their personal well-being in pursuit of an impossible deadline.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.