(1):
(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.
(2):
(a.) Intent; fixed closely; as, earnest attention.
(3):
(a.) Serious; important.
(4):
(v. t.) To use in earnest.
(5):
(n.) Something given, or a part paid beforehand, as a pledge; pledge; handsel; a token of what is to come.
(6):
(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.
(7):
(n.) Seriousness; reality; fixed determination; eagerness; intentness.