Word of the Day, October 25: ‘Rapacious’

Word of the Day: RAPACIOUS

Pronunciation: UK /rəˈpeɪ.ʃəs/
US /rəˈpeɪ.ʃəs/

Meaning

Rapacious is an adjective used to describe someone who is extremely greedy or eager to acquire wealth, power or possessions, often through unfair or exploitative means. It can also describe animals that hunt and feed on other animals.

Examples for daily usage

• The rapacious businessman continued to raise prices despite knowing that his customers were struggling.
• The king's rapacious appetite for power left little room for opposition.
• The company faced criticism for its rapacious exploitation of natural resources.
• Eagles are rapacious birds that hunt other animals for food.

Origin and history

The word rapacious dates back to the mid-17th century. It comes from the Latin rapax, meaning “greedy” or “grasping”, which is derived from rapere, meaning “to seize” or “snatch away”. 

Its origins reflect the word's central idea: taking or grabbing something, often without regard for the rights or needs of others.

Also Read: Word of the Day, October 22: ‘Onomatopoeia’ 

Cultural significance and modern usage

Rapacious is often used in journalism, literature and political commentary to criticise excessive greed.

It can describe business practices that put profit above people's welfare, leaders who seek unchecked power or individuals who exploit others for personal gain.

The word can also describe a strong appetite or desire for something.

Interesting facts

Rapaciously is the adverb, while rapaciousness and rapacity are nouns.

The word can describe greed for power, fame, resources or influence.

In zoology, rapacious can describe animals that capture and eat prey.

Synonyms

• Greedy
• Grasping
• Avaricious
• Ravenous
• Voracious
• Predatory
• Acquisitive

Antonyms

• Generous
• Selfless
• Charitable
• Altruistic
• Contented

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