English · Emotions & Feelings
jealousy
/ˈdʒel.ə.si/
[/ˈdʒel.ə.si/]
fear of losing to a rival
Intermediatenoun
Definition
A feeling of unhappiness and worry caused by fear of losing someone or something.
Example
His jealousy flared whenever she spent the evening laughing with her charming old university friends.
His jealousy flared whenever she spent the evening laughing with her charming old university friends.
Etymology
From Old French 'jalousie', from Late Latin 'zelosus' (zealous).
How & Where It’s Used
Often involves romantic insecurity, distinct from envy of possessions.