fervor
UK: ˈfɜːvə | US: ˈfɜːrvər
n. intense and passionate feeling or enthusiasm
n. (archaic) intense heat
fervor = ferv<to boil> + or<noun suffix>
- ferv (from Latin fervēre, meaning "to boil, glow, or be fervent")
- or (a noun-forming suffix indicating a state or condition, from Latin -or)
Etymology Origin:
The word fervor originates from Latin fervor, derived from fervēre ("to boil or glow"). It originally described physical heat (e.g., boiling liquid) but evolved metaphorically to denote emotional intensity or zeal. The suffix -or nominalizes the action, turning "to boil" into "a state of boiling" or "passion." This dual meaning reflects the connection between physical heat and emotional fervency in language.
The preacher spoke with such fervor that the crowd was moved to tears.
Her fervor for social justice inspired others to join the cause.
In medieval alchemy, the fervor of the furnace was essential for transmutation.
The team played with unmatched fervor, securing their victory.
His artistic fervor waned as he grew older, replaced by quiet reflection.