Definition of ambition

< ambit

ambitious >

am·bi·tion    (m-bshn) KEY 

NOUN:

1. 1. An eager or strong desire to achieve something, such as fame or power.
   2. The object or goal desired: Her ambition is the presidency.
2. Desire for exertion or activity; energy: had no ambition to go dancing.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English ambicioun, excessive desire for honor, power, or wealth, from Old French ambition, from Latin ambiti, ambitin-, from ambitus, past participle of ambre, to go around (for votes) ; see ambient