VocabDictionary

passionate

/ˈpæʃ.ən.ət/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.adjective

Having, showing, or caused by strong feelings or a powerful belief.

Example Sentences:
  • He delivered a passionate speech about the urgent need for social reform.
  • She has always been a passionate supporter of local environmental initiatives.
2.adjective

Showing or involving intense sexual desire or strong physical attraction.

Example Sentences:
  • The novel is famous for its depiction of a passionate and doomed love affair.
  • They shared a passionate embrace before he boarded the train.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “passionate”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Late Latin 'passio' (suffering), from the verb 'pati' (to suffer or endure). In Middle English and Old French, the term initially referred to the suffering of martyrs or the 'Passion' of Christ. By the 16th century, the meaning evolved to describe intense emotion, enthusiasm, or sexual desire.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'Pass' + 'I' + 'On' — when you are passionate, you pass your energy on to everything you do.

Frequently Asked Questions About “passionate

1. What is the meaning of “passionate” in English?

In English, passionate (adjective) is defined as: “Having, showing, or caused by strong feelings or a powerful belief.”.

2. How do you use “passionate” in a sentence?

He delivered a passionate speech about the urgent need for social reform.

3. What are English synonyms of “passionate”?

Common synonyms include:fervent,ardent,zealous,intense,vehement

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “passionate”?

Derived from the Late Latin 'passio' (suffering), from the verb 'pati' (to suffer or endure). In Middle English and Old French, the term initially referred to the suffering of martyrs or the 'Passion' of Christ. By the 16th century, the meaning evolved to describe intense emotion, enthusiasm, or sexual desire.