noun
avarice
A-vuh-rihs
Avarice (noun) means an excessive, greedy desire for wealth or possessions. Example: “His avarice led him to cheat his own business partners.”
noun
1
An excessive, greedy desire for wealth or possessions.
"His avarice led him to cheat his own business partners."
"The novel is a study of avarice and its cost to the soul."
How to use avarice
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishGreed for money or wealth, stronger and more literary than the everyday word "greed."
When to use it
A fairly formal or literary word — everyday speech usually just says "greed."
Common pairings
pure avarice
driven by avarice
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Word forms
- Plural
- avarices
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His _____ led him to cheat his own business partners.
Etymology
From Old French avarice, from Latin avaritia, from avarus, "greedy."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for avarice
See all rhymes for avarice →Frequently asked questions
What does “avarice” mean?
The word “avarice” means an excessive, greedy desire for wealth or possessions. In plain terms, greed for money or wealth, stronger and more literary than the everyday word "greed.".
How do you pronounce “avarice”?
“Avarice” is pronounced A-vuh-rihs (/ˈævəɹɪs/ in IPA).
How do you use “avarice” in a sentence?
Here is “avarice” used in a sentence: “His avarice led him to cheat his own business partners.”
What is another word for “avarice”?
Words with a similar meaning to “avarice” include avariciousness.
What part of speech is “avarice”?
“Avarice” is a noun.
Where does the word “avarice” come from?
The word “avarice” comes from Latin. From Old French avarice, from Latin avaritia, from avarus, "greedy.".
