A coveter is an individual who intensely desires something, often something belonging to another. This desire typically involves a sense of longing or yearning, sometimes bordering on envy. The coveter's focus is on acquiring or possessing the object of their desire, and this yearning can consume their thoughts and actions. The intensity of the coveting can range from a harmless appreciation to a more destructive obsession, potentially leading to negative behaviors. This person finds fulfillment in what they seek, even if it's a short-term high.
Coveter meaning with examples
- John, a lifelong employee, became a coveter of his boss's corner office and generous salary, constantly comparing his achievements and feeling resentful of what he lacked. He started to undermine his boss to try and move up the ladder, which ultimately backfired. He was so focused on what he desired that he ignored his current position. Instead of focusing on his own progress, he was lost in longing and envy, leading to unhappiness.
- The art collector became a coveter of the rare, lost painting, spending years and a small fortune trying to locate and acquire it. His friends watched in amazement as this quest shaped every decision. His passion drove him, but it also blinded him to other potential investments that he'd have been happier in. He would do almost anything to call it his.
- Sarah, a social media influencer, was a coveter of likes and followers, constantly comparing herself to other influencers and striving for more popularity. It was to the point of an addiction. This led her to distort reality, portraying an overly glamorous life. The more she got, the less satisfied she became. Her discontent created more lies.
- The businessman was a coveter of wealth and power. He was obsessed with the idea of having all of it, driving him to relentless deal-making and cutthroat competition in his industry, often sacrificing ethical considerations in the process. He did everything, including cheating, for the accumulation of assets.