enviable

Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ˈɛnvɪəbəl/

Definitions

• enviable (adjective) – Deserving of being envied; highly desirable or admirable.
• enviable (figurative) – A situation, quality, or achievement that others wish to have or attain.

Usage Examples

• She has an enviable position in the company, with a corner office and a large team.
• The team’s enviable track record makes them the favorite for the championship.

Etymology

From the Latin word "invidiabilis," meaning "worthy of being envied," derived from "invidere" (to envy). The term was later adopted into Middle French and then English.

Synonyms

• Desirable
• Admirable
• Coveted
• Wishful
• Attractive

Antonyms

• Unwanted
• Undesirable
• Unattractive
• Regrettable
• Unfortunate

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "enviable" remains fairly consistent across various English dialects, though in some regions, the first vowel may be pronounced with a slightly more open "e" sound, and the "a" may be softer in some British accents.

Historical Usage

Historically, "enviable" has been used to describe positions of power, wealth, and social standing that others wish to attain. In earlier usage, it referred to the feeling of envy that one might experience when seeing someone else’s advantages or successes. The word has evolved into a more neutral term describing any desirable situation.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, the idea of envy is often seen in a negative light, but the concept of having an "enviable" quality can be more neutral or even positive. For example, in some cultures, having an enviable position in society might be a mark of success, and others may strive to attain similar achievements.

More Information

The word "enviable" has become a common term in both casual conversation and professional contexts. It can refer to anything from an enviable job, lifestyle, or appearance, to more abstract qualities like an enviable reputation or personal achievements. It is often used in a positive sense, as it emphasizes something that is highly desirable or admirable. However, the underlying concept is tied to the idea that there is something others wish to have, which ties back to the feeling of envy. Whether in a professional setting or a social context, having something "enviable" often signals success or desirability in the eyes of others.