vehement

Vehement is an adjective meaning showing strong feeling or forceful energy; intense in expression or action. It describes opinions, beliefs, protests, or emotions that are powerful and demonstrative, often with urgency or passion. The term can apply to speech, argument, or behavior, and it can imply intensity without implying violence.

Originating in Latin, vehement-, vehementem meaning violent or vigorous, the word entered English via Old French vehemant or vehemant. The modern form arrived in Early Modern English, dating to the 16th or 17th century. The related noun is vehemence; the adverb is vehemently.

In usage, vehement often connotes energy that is unabashed and outspoken. It is commonly used with nouns such as opposition, denial, defense, or protest: a vehement opposition, vehement denial, vehement defense. It can apply to emotional states as well, as in vehement grief or vehement anger. The term implies intensity but does not specify whether the intensity is just justified.

Synonyms include ardent, fervent, impassioned; antonyms include mild, apathetic, tepid. The adverb vehemently is used to describe action or speech performed with force: he argued vehemently.