Definition of earnest

• n. - Seriousness; reality; fixed determination; eagerness; intentness.
• a. - Ardent in the pursuit of an object; eager to obtain or do; zealous with sincerity; with hearty endeavor; heartfelt; fervent; hearty; -- used in a good sense; as, earnest prayers.
• a. - Intent; fixed closely; as, earnest attention.
• a. - Serious; important.
• v. t. - To use in earnest.
• n. - Something given, or a part paid beforehand, as a pledge; pledge; handsel; a token of what is to come.
• n. - Something of value given by the buyer to the seller, by way of token or pledge, to bind the bargain and prove the sale.