The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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covetousness

noun

/ˈkʌv ɪ təs nɪs/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of covetousness

An intense desire or longing to possess or acquire something that belongs to someone else.
"Her covetousness for designer clothing led her to accumulate excessive debt."

Detailed meaning of covetousness

It signifies an excessive craving or greed for material possessions, wealth, or status. Covetousness often involves an envious longing for what others have, driven by a sense of dissatisfaction or the belief that possessing those items or qualities would bring personal satisfaction or fulfillment. It is characterized by an insatiable desire for more, often at the expense of ethical or moral considerations. Covetousness can lead to feelings of jealousy, resentment, or discontentment, as individuals become fixated on obtaining what others possess rather than appreciating their own circumstances. This noun highlights the negative aspects of excessive materialism and the potential harm it can cause to personal relationships, values, and overall well-being.

Example sentences containing covetousness

1. His covetousness for his neighbor's luxurious car was evident.
2. The company's executives were blinded by their covetousness for higher profits.
3. The story warned about the dangers of covetousness and its impact on one's happiness.
4. The thief's covetousness of the valuable artwork drove him to commit the crime.
5. The character's downfall in the play was a result of his covetousness for power.
6. The politician's actions were driven by his covetousness for political influence and control.

History and etymology of covetousness

The noun 'covetousness' shares its etymological roots with the adjective 'covetous.' It traces its origins to Middle English and Old French. In Middle English, it was known as 'coveitise,' which was borrowed from the Old French term 'coveitise' as well. Old French, in turn, inherited this word from the Latin 'cupiditia,' which denoted 'eager desire' or 'longing.' This Latin term was derived from 'cupidus,' meaning 'desiring' or 'eager.' Thus, the etymology of 'covetousness' echoes a historical continuum of expressing an intense desire or longing, particularly for things that belong to others. It encapsulates the concept of an ardent and often excessive craving for possessions that are not one's own, reflecting deep-seated human desires and motivations.

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Further usage examples of covetousness

1. The advertisement played on people's covetousness, urging them to buy the latest gadget.
2. The covetousness of the siblings caused a rift in their relationship over their inheritance.
3. The religious teachings emphasized the importance of contentment and the avoidance of covetousness.
4. The covetousness displayed by the contestants in the reality show led to intense competition and conflict.
5. The parable cautioned against the dangers of covetousness and the pursuit of material wealth.
6. Covetousness led him to envy his neighbor's success.
7. Her covetousness for luxury cars knew no bounds.
8. Covetousness can erode the bonds of even close friendships.
9. The allure of wealth fueled his covetousness.
10. Covetousness can cloud one's judgment and values.
11. He struggled with the constant burden of covetousness.
12. The relentless pursuit of materialism feeds covetousness.
13. The story warned against the dangers of covetousness.
14. Covetousness drove him to make regrettable choices.
15. Her covetousness for designer fashion was evident.
16. Covetousness often leads to discontent and unhappiness.
17. His covetousness for power blinded him to ethics.
18. The fable illustrated the consequences of covetousness.
19. Covetousness can overshadow gratitude for what we have.
20. Her covetousness for recognition strained relationships.
21. Covetousness can turn people into ruthless competitors.
22. The sermon addressed the perils of covetousness.
23. He sought therapy to overcome his covetousness.
24. The parable highlighted the futility of covetousness.
25. Her covetousness for success drove her relentless ambition.