Earnest
'ɜːrnɪst
Definitions
2 meaningsCharacterized by a sincere and intense conviction or feeling.
'ɜːrnɪst
Characterized by sincerity and deep feeling.
The student gave an earnest effort to improve their grades.
💡 Simply: Being earnest is like when you're really, REALLY serious about something, like wanting to do well in a game or making sure someone knows you're sorry. It's about showing how deeply you feel something.
👶 For kids: When someone is earnest, they really, really mean what they say and feel.
More Examples
Her earnest desire to help others was evident.
He delivered an earnest speech about the importance of education.
How It's Used
"He gave an earnest apology."
"Her earnest plea for help moved them."
A sum of money paid to secure an agreement; a pledge or deposit.
'ɜːrnɪst
A sum of money paid as a deposit to secure an agreement.
The buyer put down earnest money on the house.
💡 Simply: In business, earnest is like a down payment. It's a way of showing you're serious about buying something. For example, you might give the seller of a house earnest money to show you're serious.
👶 For kids: Earnest is like a promise with money. You give the money to show you are serious about buying something.
More Examples
The earnest payment secured the deal.
The seller agreed to return the earnest if the buyer could not obtain financing.
How It's Used
"The buyer paid earnest on the property."
"The contract requires a return of the earnest if the sale doesn't proceed."
From Middle English *ernest*, from Old English *eornost* ('zeal, seriousness'), from Proto-Germanic *ernustaz* ('seriousness, diligence').
Historically, 'earnest' was often used in religious and moral contexts, highlighting sincere faith and intentions.
Memory tip
Think of a heart that is truly 'in-it' - full of sincerity.