Avarice

Noun

Definition: Extreme greed for wealth or material gain.

Synonyms: Greed, Cupidity, Covetousness

Antonyms: Contentment, Generosity

Examples:

His avarice led him to cheat others out of their money.
The corporation's avarice caused them to prioritize profit over the well-being of their employees.

Mnemonics:

"Ava" sounds like "I've", imagine someone saying "I've Rice" in a greedy manner.

Etymology:

Origin:

Middle English from Latin 'avaritia', from 'avārus' meaning "greedy"

Historical Usage:

The word has been used in English since the 13th century to describe the excessive desire for wealth or material possessions.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Consumed by avarice"

Explanation:

Describes someone who is completely controlled or driven by their greed for wealth.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing avarice with ambition or motivation.

Explanation:

Avarice specifically refers to an excessive and insatiable desire for wealth or material gain, whereas ambition or motivation can be driven by various factors other than just material gain.