devotion

/di voh"sheuhn/, n.

1. profound dedication; consecration.

2. earnest attachment to a cause, person, etc.

3. an assignment or appropriation to any purpose, cause, etc.: the devotion of one's wealth and time to scientific advancement.

4. Often, devotions. Eccles. religious observance or worship; a form of prayer or worship for special use.

[1150-1200; ME devocioun ( < AF) < LL devotion- (s. of devotio), equiv. to L devot(us) (see DEVOTE) + -ion- -ION]

Syn. 2. zeal, ardor. See love.

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