early 14c., of alcoholic distillates, brandy (ardent spirits), etc., from Old French ardant (13c.) "burning, hot; zealous," from Latin ardentem (nominative ardens) "glowing, fiery, hot, ablaze," also used figuratively of passions, present participle of ardere "to burn," from PIE root *as- "to burn, glow" from PIE root *as- "to burn, glow" (cognates: Old English æsce "ashes;" see ash (n.1)).
Ardent spirits (late 15c.) so called because they are inflammable, but the term now, if used at all, probably is felt in the figurative sense. The figurative sense (of "burning with" passions, desire, etc.) is from late 14c.; literal sense of "burning, parching" (c. 1400) remains rare. Related: Ardently.
实用例句
1. He's been one of the most ardent supporters of the administration's policy.
他一向是政府政策最热情的支持者之一。
来自柯林斯例句
2. He was a poet and an ardent spiritualist.
他是位诗人，也是忠实的招魂论者。
来自柯林斯例句
3. Some ardent supporters were urging him to stand.
