| noun | something of value given by one person to another to bind a contract |
| adjective | characterized by a firm and humorless belief in the validity of your opinions “both sides were deeply in earnest, even passionate” |
| adjective | earnest “one's dearest wish” |
| adjective | not distracted by anything unrelated to the goal |
| earnestness | noun | the trait of being serious; - Robert Rice |
| sincerity | noun | an earnest and sincere feeling |
| solemnity | noun | a solemn and dignified feeling |