Definition of earnest:

part of speech: noun

Money given in hand to assure a bargain; first- fruits; pledge; assurance; in Scot.

part of speech: adjective

Done with a will; with hearty endeavour to attain the end aimed at; eager to obtain; zealous; sincere; serious.

part of speech: adverb

Earnestly.

Usage examples:

• " I am so happy this morning, and so grateful to you, Marjorie, for all you've done for me, and most of all for your friendship," was Constance's earnest answer. Pauline Lester in "Marjorie Dean High School Freshman".

• I'm in dead earnest Pauline Lester in "Marjorie Dean High School Freshman".

• A long, earnest glance passed between teacher and pupil, then Marjorie felt her hand taken between two small, warm palms. Pauline Lester in "Marjorie Dean High School Freshman".

• " I hope you will have a perfectly wonderful day," was the earnest response. Pauline Lester in "Marjorie Dean High School Freshman".