adj serious; important.
2. earnest ·vt to use in earnest.
3. earnest ·adj intent; fixed closely; as, earnest attention.
4. earnest ·noun seriousness; reality; fixed determination; eagerness; intentness.
5. earnest ·noun something given, or a part paid beforehand, as a pledge; pledge; handsel; a token of what is to come.
6. earnest ·noun 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. earnest ·adj 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.