Synonyms for

Envious

Verb / ˈenvi:ʌs / Another word for envious — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

feeling or showing envy; jealous

Synonyms & similar words

jealous covetous jealous covetous green-eyed resentful grudging spiteful malicious begrudging grudging invidious resentful jealousy envy bitterness ill-will hatred malevolence malice spite animosity

Synonyms by register

Formal

covetous resentful jealous

Informal

spiteful green-eyed wanting

Literary

emulous yearning

Antonyms

content satisfied unconcerned indifferent pleased generous

Common collocations

  • envious of
  • envious glance
  • envious look
  • envious heart
  • envious of their success
  • envious of her lifestyle

Word family

noun envy
adjective envious
adverb enviously

Usage note

Envious typically describes wanting what someone else has, often with a tinge of resentment. Jealous can also mean wanting what someone else has, but it more strongly implies a fear of losing what one already possesses.

Example sentences

  1. She was envious of her friend's new bike.
  2. He was envious of his brother's success.
  3. The envious co-worker spread rumors about her colleague.
  4. She couldn't help but feel envious of her neighbor's new car.
  5. The envious child wanted the toy that his friend had.

Quotes

  • Envy is the art of counting the other fellow's blessings instead of your own. - Harold Coffin
  • Envy is the ulcer of the soul. - Socrates
  • Envy is the art of spoiling someone else's joy.

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