envious

Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ˈɛnvɪəs/

Definitions

• envious (adjective) – Feeling or showing a desire to have what someone else has, especially something that is perceived as superior or better.
• envious (adjective) – Characterized by jealousy or resentment of someone else's success, achievements, or possessions.

Usage Examples

• She felt envious of her friend's success in the competition.
• His envious glances toward his colleague's new car were obvious.

Etymology

From the Middle English "envyous," which derives from Old French "envieux," from Latin "invidiosus" (from "invidere" meaning "to look upon with malice" or "to envy"). The word "envy" traces its roots back to the Latin "invidia," meaning "a seeing against," indicating the feeling of discontent with another's advantage.

Synonyms

• Jealous
• Resentful
• Covetous
• Green-eyed
• Desirous

Antonyms

• Admiring
• Content
• Satisfied
• Generous
• Unconcerned

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

In some dialects of English, the word "envious" may be pronounced with a stronger emphasis on the first syllable, while in other accents, the second syllable may be more pronounced. Variations in vowel sounds also occur in different English-speaking regions.

Historical Usage

The word "envious" has been used since the late Middle Ages, initially signifying the feeling of jealousy toward someone else's possession or success. Its use in English has consistently been linked to negative emotions and often appears in literature to convey moral lessons about the dangers of envy.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, envy is considered a negative emotion, often associated with feelings of inadequacy or moral failing. However, some cultures view envy as a natural human response to inequality or as a catalyst for personal improvement. In some contexts, it is associated with social competition or rivalry.

More Information

The concept of envy has been explored in numerous philosophical and literary works, often emphasizing its destructive nature. In many traditions, envy is considered one of the seven deadly sins. However, it has also been portrayed as a motivator for self-improvement and success, suggesting that envy can either degrade or drive positive change in an individual. The word "envious" continues to be relevant in discussions of social dynamics, competition, and the pursuit of material or personal success.