perfervid

UK: pəˈfɜːvɪd | US: pərˈfɜːrvɪd

Definition

  1. adj. intensely passionate or fervent

  2. adj. excessively enthusiastic or zealous

Structure
per <thoroughly>fervid <glowing>per <Latin *per-*>fervid <Latin *fervidus*>
Etymology

The word perfervid combines the Latin prefix per- (intensifying "thoroughly") with fervidus (glowing, burning), creating a term that amplifies the idea of extreme emotional heat. Originally used in poetic and rhetorical contexts, it evolved to describe overwhelming passion or zeal, often with a slightly hyperbolic or literary tone.

Examples

  1. Her perfervid speech moved the audience to tears.

  2. Critics dismissed his perfervid praise as exaggerated.

  3. The artist’s perfervid devotion to his work bordered on obsession.

  4. His perfervid nationalism alarmed his more moderate colleagues.

  5. The novel captures the perfervid intensity of youthful love.