avarice
UK: ˈævərɪs | US: ˈævərɪs
n. extreme greed for wealth or material gain
avarice = avar<greedy> + ice<noun suffix>
- avar (from Latin avarus "greedy")
- ice (noun-forming suffix, from Latin -itia, indicating a state or quality)
Etymology Origin:
The word avarice traces back to Latin avaritia, derived from avarus (greedy). The root avar reflects an insatiable desire, while the suffix -ice (via Old French) nominalizes the trait. The term evolved through Old French avarice into Middle English, retaining its core meaning of excessive greed, particularly for wealth. The morphemes logically combine to depict a fixed state of covetousness.
His avarice led him to exploit his employees for greater profits.
The king’s avarice knew no bounds, as he taxed the poor relentlessly.
Avarice often blinds people to the value of generosity.
The novel critiques the avarice of corporate culture.
She resisted the avarice that consumed her peers, choosing charity instead.