Definition of: ambition

(am·bish′ən) noun
1. Eager or inordinate desire, as for power, wealth, or distinction.
2. A strong desire to achieve something considered great or good: with of or the infinitive.
3. An object so desired or striven for.
4. Obs. A canvassing for an office or the like.
—v.t. To desire and seek eagerly. [ < L ambitio, -onis a going about (to solicit votes) < ambire. See AMBIENT.]
—am·bi′tion·less adjective Synonyms (noun): aspiration, competition, emulation, opposition, rivalry. Aspiration is the desire for excellence, pure and simple. Ambition, literally a going around to solicit votes, has primary reference to the award or approval of others, and is the eager desire for power, fame, or something deemed great and eminent. Emulation is not so much to win any excellence or success for itself as to equal or surpass other persons. Compare EMULATION. Antonyms: carelessness, contentment, humility, indifference, satisfaction.