Synonyms for "Greedy"
The word "greedy" describes a person or behavior that shows an excessive desire for more of something, often in an unappealing or selfish way. Here are some synonyms along with their explanations and examples:
- Avid
- Explanation: "Avid" means having a strong enthusiasm or eagerness for something. While it doesn't always carry the negative connotation of "greedy," when the eagerness becomes excessive and focused on getting more for oneself without regard for others, it can be similar.
- Example: He was an avid collector of rare stamps. He would go to great lengths to acquire new ones, sometimes even bidding higher than he could afford, showing a bit of a greedy streak in his pursuit of building his collection.
- Covetous
- Explanation: "Covetous" specifically means having an inordinate or wrongful desire for what belongs to others. It implies a longing to possess something that isn't rightfully yours, which is a key aspect of greed.
- Example: The covetous neighbor eyed the new car in the driveway next door, constantly thinking about how he could get one just like it, even if it meant taking advantage of the owner's misfortune.
- Rapacious
- Explanation: "Rapacious" describes a person or behavior that is aggressively greedy, often seizing things by force or taking advantage of others in a predatory way. It has a stronger and more negative sense than just "greedy."
- Example: The rapacious businessman exploited the small local companies, buying them out at ridiculously low prices and then making huge profits, showing no mercy or regard for the livelihoods of those he was taking advantage of.
- Gluttonous
- Explanation: This word is often used in relation to excessive eating, but it can also be applied more broadly to mean having an insatiable appetite for anything, not just food. It implies a lack of self-control and a desire to consume or acquire as much as possible.
- Example: The gluttonous child grabbed handfuls of candy from the bowl, not caring if there was enough left for the other kids. He just wanted to satisfy his craving for sweets without any thought for others.
- Avaricious
- Explanation: "Avaricious" means extremely greedy for wealth or material possessions. It emphasizes a strong focus on accumulating riches and a willingness to do almost anything to get more.
- Example: The avaricious banker embezzled money from his clients' accounts to increase his own wealth, driven by his insatiable desire for more money regardless of the consequences for others.
- Insatiable
- Explanation: "Insatiable" means unable to be satisfied. When applied to a person's desires, it indicates that they always want more, no matter how much they already have, which is a characteristic of greed.
- Example: Her insatiable thirst for power led her to manipulate and backstab her colleagues in order to climb the corporate ladder. She was never content with her current position and always sought more influence and authority.