earnest: Meaning and Definition of

ear•nest

1. serious in intention, purpose, or effort; sincerely zealous: an earnest worker.
2. showing depth and sincerity of feeling: earnest words; an earnest entreaty.
3. seriously important; demanding or receiving serious attention.

1. full seriousness, as of intention or purpose: to speak in earnest.

ear•nest

1. a portion of something, given or done in advance as a pledge of the remainder.
2. See
3. anything that gives pledge, promise, or indication of what is to follow.