English Dictionary

Definition of “eager”

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1eager1 (ˈiːɡəPronunciation for eager1) 

Definitions

adjective

  1. (postpositive; often foll by to or for) impatiently desirous (of); anxious or avid (for)  ⇒ he was eager to see her departure 
  2. characterized by or feeling expectancy or great desire  ⇒ an eager look 
  3. archaic tart or biting; sharp

Alternative Forms

ˈeagerly adverb ˈeagerness noun

Word Origin

C13: from Old French egre,  from Latin acer sharp, keen

2eager2 (ˈeɪɡəPronunciation for eager2) 

Definitions

noun

  1. a variant spelling of eagre

eagre or eager(ˈeɪɡəPronunciation for )

Definitions

noun

  1. a tidal bore, esp of the Humber or Severn estuary

Word Origin

C17: perhaps from Old English ēagor  flood; compare Old English ēa river, water

Usage examples

  • Gayle found herself warming to the conversation, eager to talk.
    Mark Mills, AMAGANSETT (2004)
  • Touts were selling them to eager fans for 1000, almost seven time the 150 face value.
    NME (New Musical Express) (2002)
  • In short, he looked more than ready for his next game That doesn't mean Palmer is eager to leave Southern California.
    Globe and Mail (2003)
  • The Higher Criticism movement drove many, eager for academic standing, to compromise on the integrity of scripture.
    Glasgow Herald (2001)
  • 'Stuart,' Rose repeated, taking his hand, eager to soothe him,'come on, cheer up.
    Alexandra Connor, THE TURN OF THE TIDE (2004)

Commonness

All English words that begin with 'E'

Related Terms

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