What does eagerly mean?
Eagerly is an adverb describing action done with keen enthusiasm, strong desire, or impatient anticipation. It typically modifies verbs such as wait, await, listen, read, ask, and agree, conveying that the subject wants something to happen or to learn something new: fans eagerly awaited the sequel, or she eagerly accepted the invitation. Derived from the adjective eager, which traces back through Old French to Latin acer meaning sharp or keen, it retains the sense of an appetite that is intense and focused. The word carries a warm, positive connotation, though it can also imply restlessness when the waiting becomes strained. It is equally at home in everyday speech and formal writing, making it a versatile way to express genuine interest and expectancy.
adverbIn a manner showing keen desire, enthusiasm, or impatient anticipation; with eager interest.
- With keen enthusiasm or strong desire for something expected or wanted.
- With intense interest or attentiveness (e.g. listening or reading eagerly).
"The children waited eagerly for the doors to open on Christmas morning."
"Fans eagerly awaited the band's first album in a decade."
"She leaned forward, listening eagerly to every detail of the story."
It comes from the same Latin root as 'acid' and 'acetic' — the original sense was sharp or biting, like vinegar — and that 'sharpness' eventually sharpened into keen desire.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of eagerly
Eagerly derives from the adjective eager plus the adverbial suffix -ly. Eager entered English from Old French aigre, itself from Latin acer, meaning sharp, pungent, or keen. Its earliest senses in English related to sharpness or bitterness before shifting toward keen desire and enthusiasm, and eagerly followed that same development as its natural derivative.
Related word forms
How eagerly is actually used
A neutral word suitable for both formal and informal contexts; it carries a positive, expectant connotation and often implies impatience for a future event.
Easily confused with eagerly
'Eagerly' conveys enthusiastic anticipation of something desired, while 'earnestly' means in a serious, sincere, or solemn manner.