Ardent

Ardent is an adjective used to describe a person, action, or belief characterized by intense passion or zeal. It conveys strong emotions such as enthusiasm, devotion, or eagerness, and is often applied to supporters, advocates, or pursuits that inspire sustained effort and commitment.

The word derives from the Latin ardere “to burn,” passing through Old French ardent. In English it has carried connotations of burning brightness and fervor since the early modern period.

In neutral usage, ardent signals positive fervor. It can describe someone’s ardent interest or an ardent defense. In some contexts, however, it may imply excessive heat of feeling or uncritical enthusiasm.

Related forms include the noun ardor (American spelling) or ardour (British), as well as ardently (adverb) and ardency (the quality of being ardent). Common synonyms include fervent, passionate, or zealous, while antonyms include indifferent or apathetic.

In literature and rhetoric, ardent tones are used to emphasize commitment and moral seriousness, while in everyday speech, the term highlights energetic support or motivation. The nuance of ardent often rests on the strength of feeling and the context in which it is used, rather than on a specific level of factual evidence.