seriousness; reality; fixed determination; eagerness; intentness.-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.-intent; fixed closely; as, earnest attention.-serious; important.-to use in earnest.-something given, or a part paid beforehand, as a pledge; pledge; handsel; a token of what is to come.-something of value given by the buyer to the seller, by way of token or pledge, to bind the bargain and prove the sale.