The term 'EARNEST WISH' can be broken down into two words, 'EARNEST' and 'WISH'. EARNEST is an adjective meaning 'serious in intention, purpose, or effort; sincerely zealous'. A WISH is a desire or HOPE for something to happen. Together, the phrase 'EARNEST WISH' can be interpreted as a sincere and passionate desire for something to come true. The crossword solution for this term is 'HOPE', which is a feeling of expectation and desire for a certain thing to happen. HOPE is often seen as a powerful emotion that can bring about positive change.