Word of the Day, June 28: 'Avid'

Word of the Day: AVID
Pronunciation: UK/ˈæv.ɪd/ or US/ˈæv.ɪd/

Meaning:

'Avid' means very eager or enthusiastic to do something

Examples for daily usage

• He is an avid traveller.
• They are avid fans of Malayalam cinema.

Origin and History

The word 'avid' comes from the 15th-century French word 'avide', which ultimately traces back to the Latin adjective 'avidus' (meaning "desirous", "eager", or "greedy"). This Latin root derives from the verb 'avēre', which means "to crave" or "to desire eagerly".

Cultural significance and modern usage:

The original meaning of 'avid', now less commonly used, was "desirous to the point of greed". Earlier uses appeared in expressions such as 'avid of fame' and 'avid for details', phrases that are more often found in formal writing than in everyday speech.

Over time, the meaning of 'avid' softened and gained a more positive sense. Today, it most commonly means "extremely enthusiastic" or "deeply interested". This modern usage is frequently applied to people who are passionately engaged in activities or interests, such as avid readers, gardeners, travellers or knitters.

Interesting facts

• 'Avid' once meant something close to "greedy". Today, it mostly carries a positive meaning.

  'Avid' became widely used in English literature during the Romantic movement of the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

Examples from literature:

1. Friday night’s audience created a third committee, composed entirely of avid, angry Rochester sceptics. – American Spirits by Barb Rosenstock
2. The men had little commerce with local people, but being avid radio listeners, they could report news and politics from all parts of the nation. - Travels with Charley in Search of America by John Steinbeck
3. I have found many readers more interested in what I wear than in what I think, more avid to know how I do it than in what I do.- Travels with Charley in Search of America by John Steinbeck
4. Burnham became an avid player of bridge, though he was known widely for being utterly inept at the game. - The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson

Synonyms:

• Fanatic
• Zealous
• Dedicated
• Devoted
• Keen
• Ardent
• Enthusiastic

Antonyms:

• Reluctant
• Apathetic
• Indifferent

Read more word of the day here.