What does avaricious mean?
"Avaricious" is an adjective used to describe someone who is extremely greedy, especially for money or material possessions. It comes from the Latin "avaritia," meaning greed, and carries a strongly disapproving tone: an avaricious person is not merely ambitious or financially motivated but consumed by a grasping desire for more. The word appears most often in formal writing, literature, and moral commentary — describing, say, an avaricious merchant who exploits customers, or an avaricious heir who squanders trust and reputation in pursuit of inheritance. Because it names a character flaw rather than a single act, "avaricious" tends to characterize people, institutions, or motives rather than events. Its noun form, "avarice," is equally common in literary English. Writers choose "avaricious" when they want a weightier, more condemnatory alternative to plain words like "greedy."
adjectiveHaving or showing an extreme greed for wealth or material gain.
- Having or showing an insatiable greed for wealth or gain.
"The avaricious landlord raised the rent twice in a single year."
"Critics accused the corporation of an avaricious pursuit of profit at any cost."
"In the novel, the avaricious uncle hoards the family fortune while his relatives live in poverty."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of avaricious
"Avaricious" derives from the Latin "avaritia" (greed), from "avere," meaning "to crave," which itself relates to "avidus" (eager, greedy). It entered English in the early modern period, likely in the late fifteenth century. Cognates include the noun "avarice" and related words like "avid."
Related word forms
How avaricious is actually used
A formal or literary word, always carrying strong negative connotation; it implies greed that is excessive and morally blameworthy rather than ordinary desire to earn.
Easily confused with avaricious
'Audacious' means bold or daring, while 'avaricious' means greedily desiring wealth.