Dictionary definition for: Earnest
1. (n) something of value given by one person to another to bind a contract
2. (s) characterized by a firm and humorless belief in the validity of your opinions; "both sides were deeply in earnest, even passionate" "an entirely sincere and cruel tyrant" "a film with a solemn social message"
3. (s) earnest; "one''s dearest wish" "devout wishes for their success" "heartfelt condolences"
4. (s) not distracted by anything unrelated to the goal
WordNet 2.1 Copyright Princeton University. All rights reserved.