a. [ L. ambitiosus: cf. F. ambitieux. See Ambition. ] 1. Possessing, or controlled by, ambition; greatly or inordinately desirous of power, honor, office, superiority, or distinction. [ 1913 Webster ] Yet Brutus says he was ambitious, And Brutus is an honorable man. Shak. [ 1913 Webster ] 2. Strongly desirous; -- followed by of or the infinitive; as, ambitious to be or to do something. [ 1913 Webster ] I was not ambitious of seeing this ceremony. Evelyn. [ 1913 Webster ] Studious of song, and yet ambitious not to sing in vain. Cowper. [ 1913 Webster ] 3. Springing from, characterized by, or indicating, ambition; showy; aspiring; as, an ambitious style. [ 1913 Webster ] A giant statue . . . Pushed by a wild and artless race, From off wide, ambitious base. Collins. [ 1913 Webster ] |