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agog

adjective

In a state of eager excitement, intense anticipation, or keen interest about something; wide-eyed with curiosity or expectation. Describes someone who is highly alert and emotionally stirred by anticipation of news, events, or developments.

Etymology

Origin: Middle English

Root: agogge, from Old French en + gogues (in a merry mood) — "do, go, move"

Example

"The entire neighborhood was agog when news broke that a famous movie star had purchased the mansion down the street."

Usage Notes

Agog suggests breathless anticipation and wide-eyed excitement, often about gossip, news, or dramatic events. It's more intense than merely 'interested' or 'curious.' The word carries a slightly informal register and often implies collective excitement (crowds agog at scandal). Common in journalism describing public reaction to dramatic events.