avaricious - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
avaricious Word Meanings
- having an extreme greed for wealth or material gain
- insatiably greedy
- showing a strong desire to hoard money
avaricious Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
avaricious Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌæv.əˈrɪʃ.əs/
US
/ˌæv.əˈrɪʃ.əs/
avaricious Word Etymology
Root: avar- = greedy, from Latin 'avarus' (meaning greedy). Historical origin: Latin → Old French → English. Memory image: Visualize a person with both hands grasping tightly around a pile of gold coins, never willing to share them.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Avaricious describes a person who is obsessively greedy for wealth, money, and possessions. In everyday English, it carries a strong moral tone and often implies a willingness to exploit others or hoard resources beyond reasonable needs. It is stronger than simply 'greedy' and suggests a conspicuous, relentless pursuit of wealth, sometimes at the expense of relationships or ethical standards. You might hear 'an avaricious employer' or 'an avaricious merchant' in literature, history, or news features. When using it, pair with verbs like 'hoard', 'stockpile', or 'refuse to share' to emphasize extravagantly selfish behavior. It is not about wanting money generally, but about extreme, sustained accumulation.
Usage Reminders
- Know it's stronger than greedy
- Used for people who hoard wealth or act with moral condemnation
- Common in formal writing, literature, and critique
- Pair with verbs like hoard, stockpile, refuse to share
- Not about wanting money in general, but extreme accumulation
- May be followed by nouns like landlord, merchant, executive
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing avaricious with merely 'rich' or 'wealthy'.
- Thinking it can describe a one-time act rather than ongoing behavior.
- Using it for someone who simply spends a lot, not hoards.
- Assuming it only applies to money, not possessions or power.
- Overlapping with 'greedy' but missing the stronger moral judgment.
Thinking Differences
An English speaker will hear avaricious as a strong moral judgment, implying active hoarding and exploitation beyond mere greed; learners tend to overgeneralize to any money desire and may misuse it in casual speech.
Learning Tips
- Note the stronger moral tone compared with greedy
- Use with nouns like landlord, merchant, executive to heighten impact
- Pair with verbs like hoard, stockpile, refuse to share
- Reserve for formal writing, literary contexts, or critical prose
- Differentiate from 'avarice' (the noun) for precise usage
- Practice with 2–3 varied scenarios to avoid repetition
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'avaricious'?
A.Generous
B.Courageous
C.Greedy
D.Friendly
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'avaricious' used correctly?
A.He was avaricious with his time.
B.She was avaricious for knowledge.
C.Their avaricious behavior led to conflicts.
D.The avaricious dog wagged its tail.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is an antonym of 'avaricious'?
A.Gullible
B.Thrifty
C.Stingy
D.Generous
Step 4: Opposite Words
In what real-life context would someone be described as 'avaricious'?
A.Leaving a big tip for excellent service
B.Donating a large sum to charity
C.Hoarding wealth and refusing to help the needy
D.Sharing resources with those in need
Step 5: Mastery
Try using 'avaricious' in a sentence or describe its meaning.
A.Imagine a situation with someone 'avaricious'
B.Reflect on the concept of 'avaricious'
C.Discuss a story involving 'avaricious'
D.Practice speaking about 'avaricious'
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