earnest earnest /ˈɝːnɪst/

adjective

1. () Characterized by a firm and humorless belief in the validity of your opinions  ( sincere , solemn , earnest )
   characterized by a firm and humorless belief in the validity of your opinions
    Both sides were deeply in earnest, even passionate
   both sides were deeply in earnest, even passionate
    An entirely sincere and cruel tyrant
   an entirely sincere and cruel tyrant
    A film with a solemn social message
   a film with a solemn social message
   
2. Not distracted by anything unrelated to the goal  ( businesslike , earnest )
   not distracted by anything unrelated to the goal
   
3. Sincerely earnest  ( dear , devout , earnest , heartfelt )
   sincerely earnest
    One's dearest wish
   one's dearest wish
    Devout wishes for their success
   devout wishes for their success
    Heartfelt condolences
   heartfelt condolences
   

noun

1. () Something of value given by one person to another to bind a contract  ( earnest )
   something of value given by one person to another to bind a contract