Covet
'kʌvɪt
Definitions
To yearn to possess or have (something, especially something belonging to another).
'kʌvɪt
To desire something strongly, especially something belonging to another.
He began to covet the success of his rival.
💡 Simply: Imagine you really, really want your friend's super cool toy, even though you have your own. That feeling of wanting it *so* badly is what it means to covet. It's like when you see someone else's yummy ice cream and wish you had it!
👶 For kids: To want something that belongs to someone else really, really badly.
More Examples
The artist coveted the recognition of his peers.
She openly coveted the luxurious lifestyle of the wealthy.
How It's Used
"She coveted her neighbor's new car."
"The king coveted the throne of his brother."
From Old French 'coveiter' (to desire eagerly), from Latin 'cupiditāre' (to desire, long for), derived from 'cupidus' (eager).
Historically, 'covet' often appears in religious texts and moral discussions, relating to forbidden desires and sins.
Memory tip
Think of a COVETous person wanting a VET's new car or a COVETed trophy.