ambition
UK: æmˈbɪʃ.ən | US: æmˈbɪʃ.ən
n. a strong desire to achieve something, typically requiring determination and hard work
n. (archaic) the object of such a desire; a goal or aspiration
ambition = amb<around> + it<go> + ion<noun suffix>
- amb<around>: From Latin amb- (around, about), reflecting movement or scope.
- it<go>: From Latin -ire (to go), indicating action or progression.
- ion<noun suffix>: Forms nouns denoting action or condition.
Etymology Origin:
The word ambition originates from Latin ambitio (a going around, especially for political canvassing), derived from ambire (to go around, solicit support). Over time, it evolved from the literal sense of "seeking favor" to metaphorically represent a strong drive to achieve goals, reflecting the energetic pursuit of objectives.
Her ambition to become a doctor kept her studying late into the night.
He lacked the ambition to climb the corporate ladder.
The team’s ambition was evident in their relentless effort.
Early in life, she set her ambition on exploring space.
Critics accused the politician of naked ambition rather than genuine public service.