noun
cupidity
kyoo-PID-uh-tee/kjuːˈpɪdəti/
Intense greed for wealth or possessions.
Her cupidity makes her reach for more coins despite her large hoard.
Etymology
The underlying eagerness was passionate desire in Latin, often erotic. In English, this state of desire became especially associated with wanting wealth.
In context
became by their insolence and their cupidity the scorge of the country which they plundered and degraded
More examples
- The landlord's cupidity leads him to charge tenants illegal fees.
- Their cupidity turns a family inheritance into a bitter fight.
- He mistakes her careful saving for cupidity.
Forms
cupidity
Similar words
- greed
- Greed also covers excessive desire for food or power.
- avarice
- Avarice often emphasizes hoarding wealth and refusing to spend.
- covetousness
- Covetousness especially emphasizes wanting possessions that belong to others.