Synonym Chooser

How does the noun fervor differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of fervor are ardor, enthusiasm, passion, and zeal. While all these words mean "intense emotion compelling action," fervor implies a warm and steady emotion.

read the poem aloud with great fervor

When could ardor be used to replace fervor?

In some situations, the words ardor and fervor are roughly equivalent. However, ardor suggests warm and excited feeling likely to be fitful or short-lived.

the ardor of their honeymoon soon faded

When might enthusiasm be a better fit than fervor?

The words enthusiasm and fervor can be used in similar contexts, but enthusiasm applies to lively or eager interest in or admiration for a proposal, cause, or activity.

never showed much enthusiasm for sports

When is it sensible to use passion instead of fervor?

The meanings of passion and fervor largely overlap; however, passion applies to an emotion that is deeply stirring or ungovernable.

was a slave to his passions

When would zeal be a good substitute for fervor?

While in some cases nearly identical to fervor, 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 fervor The actor mastered Charles' verbal and physical mannerisms — and played the piano and lip-synced with a fervor few actors have ever mustered. EW.com, 2 Mar. 2025 The viewer can almost imagine being a photographer who has penetrated this room of intellectual sodality, revolutionary fervor, and overwhelming youth. Philip Tinari, Artforum, 1 Mar. 2025 But their numbers, along with their fervor, is in decline. Will Johnson, Chicago Tribune, 26 Feb. 2025 The arena that would later be named Oracle, and become famous for its intensity, rocked with fervor. Marcus Thompson Ii, The Athletic, 15 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for fervor
Recent Examples of Synonyms for fervor
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 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
  • One of the film's key scenes, in which Doyle violently interrogates a suspect, didn't initially meet the intensity director William Friedkin envisioned.
    David Faris, Newsweek, 27 Feb. 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
  • Popov has a great feel for the easy warmth coursing between every member of the family, even in moments of strife, and the cast share a fun and comfortable chemistry.
    Angie Han, The Hollywood Reporter, 13 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • This shift means more opportunities for students to pursue their passions and build meaningful careers.
    Scott White, Forbes, 16 Mar. 2025
  • 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

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Cite this Entry

“Fervor.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fervor. Accessed 22 Mar. 2025.

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