1. the quality of being serious, sincere, and determined in purpose or effort

Examples

• Her earnestness about environmental issues impressed the committee.
• The student’s earnestness in studying paid off with excellent grades.
• He spoke with such earnestness that everyone listened carefully.
• The earnestness of her apology convinced him she was truly sorry.
• Despite his youth, his earnestness made him a respected leader.
• The teacher appreciated the earnestness with which the class approached the project.