Voracity: meaning, definitions and examples

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voracity

 

[ vəˈræsəti ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

excessive desire for food

Voracity refers to an insatiable hunger or appetite, especially for food. It implies a strong and uncontrollable desire to consume large quantities of food.

Synonyms

gluttony, greediness, rapaciousness.

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Word Description / Examples
voracity

Use when describing an intense eagerness or enthusiasm for something, not necessarily related to food. It is often used in a neutral or positive context.

  • Her voracity for knowledge impressed all her teachers.
  • The athlete's voracity during training sessions is unmatched.
greediness

Used to describe a selfish desire for more than one needs, often related to money or possessions. It carries a negative connotation.

  • His greediness made him lose all his friends.
  • The company's greediness led to unethical business practices.
rapaciousness

This term is used for aggressive greed or a predatory desire to take more than one needs, often with a sense of ruthlessness. It has a strongly negative connotation.

  • The rapaciousness of the invading forces shocked the villagers.
  • The rapaciousness of the corporation led to the destruction of many small businesses.
gluttony

This word refers specifically to excessive eating and drinking. It has a negative connotation, often implying a lack of self-control.

  • His gluttony at the buffet was embarrassing.
  • The holiday season can often lead to gluttony.

Examples of usage

  • Her voracity at the buffet was evident as she went back for seconds and thirds.
  • The voracity of the wild animals as they hunted for prey was a sight to behold.
Context #2 | Noun

eager or insatiable desire for an activity

Voracity can also refer to a strong and eager desire for an activity, not just limited to food. It conveys a sense of intensity and enthusiasm towards that particular activity.

Synonyms

eagerness, enthusiasm, zeal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
voracity

Best used to describe an intense and insatiable appetite or hunger for something, often food, but can be used metaphorically. It has a slightly negative connotation when describing people's desires.

  • His voracity for power was evident in his every action.
  • The voracity with which he devoured the meal was astonishing.
eagerness

Fits well when expressing a strong willingness or desire to do something, generally in a positive light and more subtle manner compared to 'voracity'.

  • Her eagerness to learn new things made her a favorite among the teachers.
  • You could sense his eagerness for the trip just by looking at him.
enthusiasm

Appropriate for showing intense and lively interest or excitement about something, often in a positive and energetic way.

  • The team's enthusiasm was evident as they prepared for the big game.
  • Her enthusiasm for the project was contagious, motivating everyone around her.
zeal

Used when describing a passionate and fervent devotion to a cause, job, or activity. It usually has a strong, positive intensity.

  • He worked with great zeal to complete the mission.
  • Her zeal for social justice was inspiring.

Examples of usage

  • His voracity for learning new languages is truly inspiring.
  • The voracity with which she approached her work was unmatched by her colleagues.

Translations

Translations of the word "voracity" in other languages:

🇵🇹 voracidade

🇮🇳 लालच

🇩🇪 Gefräßigkeit

🇮🇩 kelobaan

🇺🇦 ненажерливість

🇵🇱 żarłoczność

🇯🇵 貪欲 (どんよく)

🇫🇷 voracité

🇪🇸 voracidad

🇹🇷 açgözlülük

🇰🇷 탐욕

🇸🇦 نهم

🇨🇿 nenasytnost

🇸🇰 nenásytnosť

🇨🇳 贪婪

🇸🇮 požrešnost

🇮🇸 græðgi

🇰🇿 ашқарақтық

🇬🇪 მოძალება

🇦🇿 acgözlülük

🇲🇽 voracidad

Etymology

The word 'voracity' originates from the Latin word 'voracitas', meaning greed or ravenous appetite. Over time, it has evolved to encompass not just a desire for food but also a strong eagerness for various activities.

See also: voraciousness.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,195 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.