zealousy

English

Etymology

From Ancient Greek ζῆλος (zêlos, “zeal, jealousy”), from ζηλόω (zēlóō, “to emulate, to be jealous”).

Noun

zealousy (uncountable)

1. Zeal; zealotry.
   • 1922, Retail Clerks International Advocate: 1922-23 - Volumes 29-30, page 5:

     We all make mistakes, some more frequently than others. It should not be our purpose to condemn each other for mistakes made. Neither should we, with bitter partisan zealousy, condone all wrongs committed.

2. The passionate desire for an exclusive relationship.
   • 1898, Frank Harris, A Daughter of Eve:

     Anyway, she was with him now more than with any of us. It made me angry and scornful, kept my zealousy alive, prevented me from understanding her or forgiving—I always saw the two heads together and the fatal kiss.

   • 2011, Pure Emotion, page 93:

     There's a fine line, starting with a comparison in a relationship and moving toward either zealousy, a fervent passion to protect an exclusive relationship, and envy, a resentment about a difference and desire to conquer that difference.

Usage notes

(passionate desire for exclusive relationship): Zealousy is similar to jealousy, but usually has more positive connotations, focusing predominantly on the desire for connection rather than anger at betrayal or a lack of exclusivity.