What does jealousy mean?
Jealousy is a noun for the painful or uneasy feeling that arises when another person has, or may take, something one values. It is most commonly associated with romantic relationships, where a person may fear a partner's interest in someone else, but it can also occur among siblings, coworkers, friends, and competitors. Jealousy differs from simple envy because it often includes anxiety about losing a person, place, status, or advantage. Although the feeling is universal, its expression varies with culture and personality: some people become withdrawn or suspicious, while others respond with anger, rivalry, or efforts to regain security. The word is useful because it names a complex emotional mixture of envy, fear, possessiveness, and resentment, while also recognizing that jealousy can be an expression of love, commitment, or a desire to preserve an important bond.
nounJealousy is the feeling of envy or resentment toward someone who has or may receive something one desires, especially an exclusive relationship or advantage. It can also involve anxiety about losing a partner, position, or valued possession to another person.
- The feeling of wanting what another person has, especially a romantic partner, attention, status, or an opportunity.
- Fear or resentment arising from the possibility that a valued relationship, position, or possession will be taken by someone else.
- A hostile or suspicious attitude toward someone regarded as a rival.
"Her jealousy of her brother's success led her to make accusations that were unfair."
"His obvious jealousy of the new colleague made the workplace atmosphere tense."
"The child had overcome much of his jealousy when his baby sister was given a greater share of the attention."
Usually used in the plural when referring to separate instances or types of jealousy; the singular is used for the general feeling or an uncountable concept.
"The novel explores the jealousies and rivalries that develop within the family."
Jealousy can turn the most desired thing into the most threatening one.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does jealousy come from?
The word comes through Old French jaloux, meaning zealous or jealous, which developed from a Vulgar Latin form related to Latin gelidus, meaning cold or chilly. In English, jealousy originally carried a strong sense of intense longing or rivalry before becoming focused especially on fear of losing a lover or valued possession. The related words jealous, jealously, and jealousness continue the same historical development.
Related word forms
How jealousy is actually used
Jealousy is common in both formal and informal English. It can describe mild envy as well as an intense, possessive, or resentful emotional state; in descriptions of relationships, it often carries a negative connotation.
Easily confused with jealousy
Jealousy usually involves fear of losing someone or something valuable to another person, whereas envy more broadly means wanting what another person possesses.