covet

[kuhv-it]

verb (used with object)

1. to desire wrongfully, inordinately, or without due regard for the rights of others.

   to covet another's property.

   Antonyms: renounce

2. to wish for, especially eagerly.

   He won the prize they all coveted.

verb (used without object)

1. to have an inordinate or wrongful desire.

covet

/ ˈkʌvɪt /

verb

1. to wish, long, or crave for (something, esp the property of another person)

Other Word Forms

• coveter noun
• covetable adjective
• covetingly adverb
• uncoveting adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of covet¹

First recorded in 1325–1350; Middle English coveiten, from Anglo-French coveiter, Old French coveit(i)er, from unattested Vulgar Latin cupiditāre, verbal derivative of Latin cupiditās cupidity

Word History and Origins

Origin of covet¹

C13: from Old French coveitier, from coveitié eager desire, ultimately from Latin cupiditā _cupidity

Synonym Study

See envy.

Example Sentences

One daughter of a former congressman was called out for a single outfit, when she paired Fendi with Dior, and carried Hermes' coveted and high-priced Birkin bag.

From BBC

In fact, it’s become a coveted trait in recent years for coach Lincoln Riley.

From Los Angeles Times

It’s still unclear whether other candidates will enter the race for controller — a coveted role that is one of three citywide offices, along with mayor and city attorney.

From Los Angeles Times

Working at one of the state’s 35 minimum-security fire camps is a voluntary and coveted job, giving inmates a chance to spend time outside prison walls, help their communities and get paroled more quickly.

From Los Angeles Times

It doesn’t hurt that video games also attract a coveted younger audience.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• crave 
• envy 
• lust after www.thesaurus.com