What does it mean to covet? Explained
What does it mean to covet
Pronunciation
/kʌvɪt/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A strong desire or longing for something, often in a way that is considered wrong or immoral.
Examples
- She coveted her neighbor’s new car.
- He coveted the top spot in the competition.
Synonyms
- Desire
- Longing
- Yearn
Antonyms
- Dislike
- Disinterest
Additional Information
Coveting is often associated with feelings of jealousy, envy, or insecurity. It can be a negative emotion that can lead to unhealthy behavior or relationships. In religious contexts, coveting is considered one of the Ten Commandments and is seen as a sin. In modern psychology, coveting is studied as a form of desire that can be influenced by social and cultural factors.
In literature and art, coveting is often used as a theme to explore human nature and the consequences of desire. In popular culture, coveting is often depicted as a motivator for characters’ actions, leading to dramatic plot twists and conflicts.
Etymology
The word “covet” originated from the Old French “coveiter”, meaning “to desire or long for”. It is derived from the Latin “cupere”, meaning “to desire” or “to long for”.
Usage Notes
Coveting is often used in everyday language to describe a strong desire for something, but it can also be used in more formal or literary contexts to explore complex themes and emotions.
Cultural References
- In William Shakespeare’s “Othello”, Iago’s coveting of Othello’s position and reputation drives the plot.
- In the Bible, the Tenth Commandment prohibits coveting thy neighbor’s goods.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Covetous heart
- Covet thy neighbor’s goods
Related Words or Phrases
- Envy
- Jealousy
- Desire
Collocations
- Covet something
- Covetous of someone’s success
Frequency of Use
Covet is a moderately common word, used in a variety of contexts to describe strong desires or longings.
Common Misspellings
- Coveit
- Covite