The word amateur comes from the French term amateur, which itself originates from the Latin word amator, meaning “lover,” which is derived from amare, meaning “to love.”
At its core, an amateur is someone who engages in an activity out of love or passion rather than for professional reasons or financial gain. This original sense of the word emphasizes enthusiasm and devotion, contrasting with its modern usage, which sometimes carries a connotation of inexperience or lack of skill.
The etymological root reflects the idea that an amateur pursues their interests not for rewards but for the sheer joy and love of the activity itself.