Definition

A person who feels jealousy or resentment towards someone else's possessions or qualities.

Example

She was an envier, always wishing she had what her friends had.

Conversation

I can't believe how successful Lisa is with her business.

I know, it's hard not to feel like an envier sometimes.

Exactly! I want to be happy for her, but it's tough.

It's natural to feel that way, but we all have our own paths.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Envier is derived from Old French 'enviier', which comes from the Latin 'invidere' (meaning to look at with envy or to be jealous). The word combines 'in-' (meaning upon) and 'videre' (meaning to see). Thus, 'envier' refers to the act of looking upon someone else's possessions or success with jealousy.

Memory Tip

Think of 'looking upon' ('videre') something 'with envy' ('in-') — that's why envier means to feel jealousy towards someone else's good fortune.

Visually Confused Words