/ahr"deuhr/ , n.
1. great warmth of feeling; fervor; passion: She spoke persuasively and with ardor.
2. intense devotion, eagerness, or enthusiasm; zeal: his well-known ardor for Chinese art.
3. burning heat.
Also, esp. Brit., ardour .
[ 1350-1400; ME ard ( ere ) to burn + -or -OR 1 ; r. ME ardure ardur ardour ]
Syn. 1. fervency, spirit, earnestness, intensity.