Definition of ardent

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< Ardennes

ardent spirits >

ar·dent    (ärdnt) KEY  

ADJECTIVE:

1. Expressing or characterized by warmth of feeling; passionate: an ardent lover.
2. Displaying or characterized by strong enthusiasm or devotion; fervent: "an impassioned age, so ardent and serious in its pursuit of art" (Walter Pater).
3. 1. Burning; fiery.
   2. Glowing; shining: ardent eyes.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English ardaunt, from Old French ardant, from Latin rdns , rdent- present participle of rdre, to burn; see as- in Indo-European roots

OTHER FORMS:
arden·cy   (-dn-s) KEY  (Noun), ardent·ly (Adverb)

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