noun

der Eifer, null

zeal

Starker Wunsch, etwas mit viel Einsatz und Freude zu tun.

Definition & meaning

Eifer refers to a state of focused, energetic, and intense dedication toward a specific goal, task, or cause. It captures a sense of being driven and enthusiastic in one's efforts.

Depending on the context, it can have two slightly different nuances:

Positive: Zeal, diligence, or earnestness. It describes a person who works with great focus and devotion to achieve something (e.g., Arbeitseifer – diligence in work).
Negative: Sometimes, it can imply a sense of being over-zealous or frantic, bordering on fanaticism or blind haste, as seen in the phrase Übereifer (over-zeal).

Grammar & Word origin

Eifer is a masculine noun (der Eifer). It does not have a standard plural form.

The word traces back to the Old High German word eifara, which is related to the Greek zelos (meaning zeal or emulation). Etymologically, it is linked to the idea of being moved by a strong passion or an urge to compete or succeed.