avid
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /ˈævɪd/
US
- /ˈævəd/
- /ˈævɪd/
Description
- Enthusiastic
- keen
- passionate
- eager
- devoted
Imagine someone who really loves something – not just likes it, but can't get enough of it. That person is an avid fan! An avid reader devours books, an avid gardener spends hours tending to their plants, and an avid collector tirelessly seeks out rare items.
The word "avid" suggests a strong eagerness and dedication. It's more than just interest; it implies active participation and a genuine passion. You might be an avid follower of a sports team, meaning you watch every game and know all the players. Or perhaps you're an avid hiker, always planning your next adventure on the trails.
To be avid is to possess a burning enthusiasm and unwavering dedication to something. It's not simply liking something; it's about actively pursuing it with passion and eagerness. The word comes from the Latin "avidus," meaning greedy or eager – hinting at an insatiable desire for more.
You'll often encounter "avid" when describing hobbies, interests, or fans. An avid cyclist isn't just someone who rides a bike occasionally; they live and breathe cycling, meticulously maintaining their equipment and seeking out challenging routes. Similarly, an avid moviegoer doesn't just see films – they analyze them, discuss them with friends, and eagerly anticipate new releases.
"Avid" can also describe people who are keen learners or dedicated professionals. An avid student is one who actively participates in class and goes above and beyond the required coursework. A journalist might be described as an avid researcher, tirelessly digging for information to uncover a compelling story.
Unlike simply being "interested," being avid implies a level of commitment that borders on obsession – a joyful, passionate pursuit that fills one's life with excitement and purpose. So if you find yourself completely captivated by something, chances are you're an avid enthusiast!
Examples
- 1
Reading
Emma is an avid reader who always carries a book in her bag.
- 2
Sports fandom
He's an avid baseball fan and watches almost every game.
- 3
Collecting
Her father is an avid collector of old postcards.
- 4
Travel planning
The blog is especially useful for avid travelers planning long train trips.
- 5
Formal eagerness
As a child, I was avid for anything about dinosaurs.
Usage
avid for + thing
very eager for it; more formal than avid + noun
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- avidadjective