Avarice: Word Meaning, Examples, Origin & Usage in IELTS

In the advanced English vocabulary, few words capture the darker side of human desire as precisely as ‘avarice’. This term represents extreme greed for wealth or material gain, often used in literature, philosophy, and formal writing to discuss moral and ethical issues.

In this blog, we will discuss the meaning, history, and proper usage of the term ‘avarice’, solidify your understanding through practical exercises, and add it to your IELTS Vocabulary words list for Band 8 or 9 to achieve your desired score.

Meaning of Avarice

• Pronunciation: /ˈævərɪs/ (sounds like a·vuh·ruhs)

The word ‘avarice’ is a noun that refers to an insatiable or excessive desire for wealth and possessions, often at the expense of ethics or compassion. It expresses not just greed but also moral corruption driven by material obsession.

This term is most commonly found in formal or literary contexts, especially when discussing themes like moral decay, capitalism, or human flaws.

History and Origin of Avarice

Understanding a word’s history gives it richer meaning. ‘Avarice’ comes from Latin and has been used for centuries to describe one of the seven deadly sins: greed.

The concept of ‘avarice’ has appeared in religious and moral texts since medieval times. It was considered one of humanity’s greatest weaknesses, a destructive hunger that leads to downfall.

Usage & Examples of Avarice

The word ‘avarice’ can be used in various contexts, from describing personal greed to criticizing social systems that prioritize wealth over ethics. It is especially effective in formal essays or literary analysis. 

The following are a few examples showcasing the usage of the word ‘avarice’ within suitable contexts.

• As a result of the man’s refreshing lack of avarice, a replica of the pub had to be built.
• I interpreted his secrecy as emotional avarice.
• Consuming the fruits of the Earth unrestrained, we become consumed ourselves by avarice and greed.
• His avarice led him to betray his closest friends in pursuit of fortune.
• The story criticizes society’s avarice and obsession with consumerism.
• The film exposes corporate avarice and the exploitation of workers.
• Sermons often warn against avarice as a moral and spiritual failure.
• The protagonist’s avarice becomes the cause of his tragic end.
• Avarice blinds people to the value of kindness and empathy.

IELTS Usage of ‘Avarice’

In the IELTS exam, ‘avarice' can be a strong lexical choice when discussing topics related to money, capitalism, morality, or human behavior. Below are IELTS-style examples to show it can be used in the actual exam answers.

IELTS Writing Task 2

• Topic: Some people think that the pursuit of wealth has a negative impact on society. Do you agree or disagree?
• Answer Excerpt: I firmly believe that excessive avarice among corporations and individuals fuels corruption and environmental destruction. While ambition can drive progress, uncontrolled greed prioritizes profit over human welfare, leading to long-term social and moral consequences.

IELTS Speaking Part 2

• Cue Card Topic: Describe a person you think is very materialistic.
• Answer Excerpt:  “I once worked with a colleague who was driven entirely by money. He would do extra shifts, not because he enjoyed his job, but purely for the bonuses. His constant talk about wealth and possessions showed a level of avarice that made others uncomfortable.”

Synonyms of Avarice

Let’s explore synonyms of ‘avarice’ to enhance your vocabulary and enrich your IELTS Writing Task 2 essays and discussions.

Antonyms of Avarice

The antonyms of ‘avarice’ represent generosity, selflessness, and detachment from material desires, qualities often admired in moral and social discussions. In the table below, you will find some antonyms, or opposites, to boost your IELTS vocabulary. 

Exercise to Master the Meaning of Avarice

Now, it is time to complete the exercises that follow to improve your understanding of the word ‘avarice’.

1. The Trojans wish to __________ the death of Hector; their misplaced values mean that patience in adversity is impossible.
2. I believe that there is an authentic beauty in science and this is fervently _______ by many scientists.
3. In Emor he had been rich beyond the dreams of _____________.
4. He received a ________ of arts degree from Syracuse University and in the early 1950s did graduate studies in musicology at Princeton.
5. This effectively creates a limited number of entry points into the _________ and simplifies network management.
6. It is the ___________ to the city’s continued economic growth.
7. The company’s new policy _____________ when a number of employees threatened to quit.
8. Don’t expect the game against Florida to be a cakewalk ____________.
9. He had real charm, which made ___________ figures such as Tolkien distrust him.
10. They carried with them galvanic batteries of a type generally used for feats of entertainment at ________.

Answer key:

1. avenge
2. avowed
3. avarice
4. bachelor.
5. backbone.
6. backdrop.
7. backfire.
8. cakewalk.
9. canny.
10. carnival.

To conclude, the word ‘avarice’ enriches your vocabulary and helps to express complex ideas about morality, wealth, and human nature. In IELTS, it can help you articulate arguments about money, ethics, and values with precision and sophistication. So add it to your advanced vocabulary word list for IELTS and the next time you describe someone’s greed or society’s obsession with material success, use ‘avarice’ to elevate your expression and impress your examiner.

Useful Links:

• Ambiguous: Word Meaning, Examples, Origin & Usage in IELTS
• Gluttony - Word Of The Day For IELTS Speaking And Writing
• Sordid - Word Of The Day For IELTS
• Deference - Word Of The Day For IELTS Speaking And Writing
• Practical Tips on How to Improve Vocabulary for the IELTS Exam
• Top Synonyms for Common Adjectives in IELTS Speaking & Writing