avaricious

Imagine Smeagol from Lord of the Rings, obsessing over "his precious." That's avarice in action! An avaricious person isn't just ambitious; they have an insatiable, almost unhealthy desire for possessions and wealth. They aren't content with enough—they always want more. While wanting financial security is normal, someone avaricious prioritizes accumulating riches above all else, often at the expense of morality or relationships. You might describe a ruthless business tycoon as avaricious, or a character in a story who hoards gold and refuses to share it.

The word "avaricious" describes an extreme greed for wealth or possessions. It goes beyond simply wanting nice things; it's a relentless, consuming desire that drives someone's actions and often overshadows other values like kindness, generosity, or even basic human decency. The word comes from the Latin avarus, meaning "greedy."

An avaricious person isn't motivated by need, but by an insatiable hunger for more—more money, more land, more power. They might exploit others, cut corners ethically, or sacrifice personal relationships in their pursuit of wealth. It is a negative trait, often associated with selfishness and moral failings.

You won't typically use "avaricious" to describe someone who enjoys shopping or appreciates luxury. Instead, it's reserved for those whose lives are dominated by the accumulation of riches. For example: "The king was known for his avaricious nature, constantly demanding higher taxes from his people." Or, "Driven by avarice, he betrayed his friends and stole their inheritance."

Historically, avarice has been considered one of the seven deadly sins—a powerful testament to its destructive potential. So, if you encounter someone whose desire for wealth seems boundless and corrupting, "avaricious" is likely the perfect word to describe them.