covetous

[ˈkʌvɪtəs]

covetous Definition

having or showing a great desire to possess something, typically something belonging to someone else.

Using covetous: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "covetous" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    He cast covetous glances at her jewelry.

  • Example

    The company's covetous practices led to its downfall.

  • Example

    She was covetous of her neighbor's new car.

  • Example

    His covetous nature made him unpopular among his peers.

covetous Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for covetous

Phrases with covetous

  • having an excessive desire for power or control

    Example

    The dictator was covetous of power and would do anything to maintain it.

  • covetous of wealth

    having an excessive desire for wealth or material possessions

    Example

    The businessman was covetous of wealth and would stop at nothing to make more money.

  • an envious or greedy look

    Example

    She gave him a covetous eye when he showed her his new watch.

Origins of covetous

from Old French 'coveitos', from Latin 'cupidus', meaning 'eager, desirous'

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Summary: covetous in Brief

The term 'covetous' [ˈkʌvɪtəs] describes a strong desire to possess something that belongs to someone else. It is often used to describe people who are envious, greedy, or grasping. Examples include 'He cast covetous glances at her jewelry.' and 'His covetous nature made him unpopular among his peers.' 'Covetous' extends into phrases like 'covetous of power' and 'covetous of wealth,' denoting excessive desire for control or material possessions.

How do native speakers use this expression?