Eager

Eager is an adjective used to describe a strong desire or enthusiasm to do or obtain something, or a readiness to act. It often conveys positive anticipation rather than impatience or anxiety. People may be eager to learn, to help, to participate, or to start a task.

In common usage, "eager to" introduces an infinitive: "eager to please," "eager to learn." It can also pair with "for" to express a strong desire for an outcome: "eager for success," "eager for news." In informal speech, "an eager beaver" refers to a person who is unusually eager to work or engage in activities.

Eager is frequently contrasted with anxious or reluctant; while both can accompany "to," eager implies positive anticipation rather than worry. Related terms include keen, enthusiastic, ardent, and avid; antonyms include indifferent, uninterested, reluctant.