covet
UK[ˈkʌvɪt]US[ˈkʌvɪt]
v
To want to have something very much, especially something that belongs to someone else.
Etymology
The word 'covet' has a direct lineage from the Latin verb 'cupere', meaning 'to desire or long for'. This root gave rise to 'cupiditas', the noun for desire, which evolved into the Old French 'coveitier'. The modern English form crystallized in the Middle English period, retaining the intense, often illicit connotation of yearning for what belongs to another. Its semantic core has remained remarkably stable, moving from a general Latin desire to a more specifically envious and possessive craving in English usage.
Analysis
This word is a simplex form. It entered English as a whole unit from Anglo-French/Old French 'cuveitier', which is based on Latin 'cupiditas' meaning 'desire, longing'. The core semantic unit is the Latin root 'cup-' meaning 'to desire'.
Examples
He coveted his neighbor's new car.
She secretly coveted the leadership position.
The crown was a coveted prize, desired by many.