jealous
UK: ˈdʒeləs | US: ˈdʒeləs
adj. feeling or showing envy of someone else's achievements, advantages, or possessions
adj. fiercely protective or vigilant of one's rights or possessions
adj. (archaic) suspiciously watchful; distrustful
jealous = jeal<zeal, ardor> + ous<adjective suffix>
- jeal (from Old French jalous, derived from Late Latin zelosus "zealous," from Greek zēlos "zeal, ardor")
- ous (adjective-forming suffix indicating possession or quality, from Latin -osus)
Etymology Origin:
The word "jealous" traces back to the Greek zēlos (zeal, fervor), which entered Late Latin as zelosus (full of zeal). Through Old French jalous, it evolved to Middle English jelous, initially meaning "ardent" or "vigilant." Over time, the connotation shifted toward envy and possessiveness, reflecting the dual nature of zeal—both passionate devotion and wary rivalry. The suffix -ous solidifies its adjectival form, emphasizing the emotional intensity tied to the root.
She felt jealous when her friend received the promotion she wanted.
He was jealous of his brother's natural talent for music.
The dog growled, jealous of anyone approaching its owner.
Insecure people often act jealous without reason.
(Archaic) The king kept a jealous watch over his treasury.