Definition

Noun: 1. Greed; one of the seven deadly sins: Avaritia is the personification of an excessive and morally reprehensible desire for material wealth and possessions. It is considered a sin because it places the pursuit of riches above spiritual or ethical concerns.

Usage

The word "avaritia" is a formal, often literary or theological term. It is used to describe greed not just as a character trait, but as a fundamental vice or sin. It is frequently personified (treated as a character or force) in religious and moral writings. - The sermon warned against the dangers of avaritia, which can corrupt the soul. - In medieval art, Avaritia was often depicted as a miser clutching a money bag.

Examples

• The philosopher argued that avaritia is the root of much social injustice.
• His life was consumed by avaritia, leading him to betray his closest friends for financial gain.

Advanced Usage

• Personification: Avaritia is one of the personified deadly sins, often capitalized when referred to in this allegorical sense.
  • In Dante's "Inferno," the penitent guilty of Avaritia are punished in the fourth circle of Hell.

Variants and Related Words

• Avarice (noun): The more common English synonym for "avaritia," meaning extreme greed for wealth.
  • His actions were motivated by pure avarice.
• Avaricious (adjective): Having or showing an extreme greed for wealth.
  • The avaricious landlord raised the rents mercilessly.

Synonyms

• Greed
• Rapacity
• Cupidity
• Acquisitiveness (especially when reprehensible)

Related Idioms/Phrases

• While not idioms containing "avaritia" itself, the concept is central to many expressions about greed:
  • "The love of money is the root of all evil.": A biblical proverb (1 Timothy 6:10) encapsulating the idea behind avaritia.
  • "Greed is a bottomless pit.": An idiom meaning that greed can never be satisfied.

Noun

1. reprehensible acquisitiveness; insatiable desire for wealth (personified as one of the deadly sins)