Definition

Noun: - Extreme greed for material wealth: Avariciousness refers to an intense and excessive desire to acquire and hoard money, possessions, or other material goods. It implies an insatiable appetite for wealth that goes beyond normal ambition or need.

Usage

Avariciousness is a formal noun used to describe a deep-seated character trait of greed. It is often used in critical or moral contexts to condemn excessive materialism and the selfish pursuit of wealth at the expense of others or ethical principles.

Examples

• The tycoon's avariciousness was legendary; he would exploit any opportunity for profit, no matter who it harmed.
• The novel explores the destructive consequences of human avariciousness on society and personal relationships.
• His actions were not driven by necessity but by pure avariciousness.

Advanced Usage

• "The avariciousness of the heart": A literary phrase personifying greed as a driving force within a person.
  • The story is a cautionary tale about the avariciousness of the human heart.

Variants and Related Words

• Avarice (n): A more common synonym for avariciousness, meaning extreme greed for wealth.
  • His life was ruled by avarice.
• Avaricious (adj): Having or showing extreme greed for wealth.
  • The avaricious landlord raised the rents mercilessly.

Synonyms

• Greed: An intense and selfish desire for something, especially wealth or power.
• Rapacity: Aggressive greed.
• Cupidity: Greed for money or possessions.
• Acquisitiveness: A strong desire to acquire and own things.

Antonyms

• Generosity: The quality of being kind and generous.
• Altruism: The belief in or practice of selfless concern for the well-being of others.
• Contentment: A state of happiness and satisfaction.

Idioms and Phrases

• "The avariciousness of Midas": An allusion to the Greek myth of King Midas, whose wish that everything he touched turned to gold led to tragedy, symbolizing the pitfalls of excessive greed for wealth.

Noun

1. extreme greed for material wealth