Voraciousness: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically refers to an extreme eagerness or desire for something, often food but also knowledge or other activities.

• Her voraciousness for reading made her a frequent visitor to the library

Denotes an excessive desire for more than one needs or deserves, commonly related to wealth, power, or food. It usually carries a negative connotation.

• The businessman's greediness led him to exploit his employees, lowering their wages to increase his profit

Specifically relates to over-indulgence in eating and drinking, often viewed negatively as one of the seven deadly sins.

• His gluttony at the buffet made him feel sick afterward

Refers to aggressive greed, especially for money or possessions, and often implies a willingness to use unethical means. This word is highly negative.

• The rapacity of the colonial powers led to the exploitation of the native populations

Describes an intense and sometimes aggressive desire or appetite, often for food or consumption, and can carry a negative connotation.

• The child's voraciousness for sweets worried his parents.
• The voraciousness of the market's demand left the suppliers scrambling.

Denotes an unquenchable or unending desire, often in a negative sense, referring to something that cannot be satisfied.

• Her insatiability for luxury goods put her in debt.
• The company's insatiability for profit led to ethical compromises.

Expresses a positive and enthusiastic anticipation or desire to do something.

• He showed great eagerness to start his new job.
• The children's eagerness to open their presents was palpable.

Indicates a strong enthusiasm or interest in something, often used in a positive or neutral context.

• Her avidity for learning new languages helped her travel the world.
• The scientist’s avidity for research led to groundbreaking discoveries.