ardor

ardour

noun ahr-DOHR Rare

Origin: From Latin ardor (burning, fire), from ardere (to burn).

Also means

burning sensation

Usage Note

Ardor has two distinct registers: an emotional one ('passion, zeal, fervour') and a physical one referring to a burning sensation, most commonly ardor de estómago (heartburn). In literary contexts it conveys intense romantic or patriotic feeling. Note that Spanish ardor is masculine, unlike the abstract nouns ending in -or that are sometimes assumed feminine by learners.

Examples

"Defendió su postura con ardor."

Natural Translation

He defended his position with ardour.

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