Jehus

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A term used in the Bible referring to a leader or king known for zealousness or fervor in their actions
2. An informal term for someone who displays extreme enthusiasm or fervent behavior, often in a reckless manner
3. A descriptor for overly energetic individuals, particularly those who act impulsively or with excessive zeal

Etymology: Jehu was a real figure in the Hebrew Bible, the son of Nimshi and a commander of chariots for the king of Israel. In 2 Kings 9:20, a watchman describes his approach with the words "he driveth furiously," and that reckless driving became his lasting reputation. After Jehu led a revolt and seized the throne himself, his name survived in English as a byword for a fast, headlong driver. From the 17th century, English speakers used "jehu" as a nickname for a coachman or any wild, fast driver, and the plural "jehus" is simply the form used when speaking of more than one such figure. Over time the word broadened from the driver's seat to anyone who charged at things with excessive zeal, which is the sense it carries today.