Meaning & Definition of word "Jealous"

Jealous

/ˈdʒɛləs/

adjective:

  • 1. feeling or showing an envious resentment of someone or their achievements, possessions, or perceived advantages.
    • Example: She felt jealous when she saw her friend receiving praise for her work.
  • 2. having to do with an excessive concern for someone's fidelity or loyalty, especially in a romantic context.
    • Example: His jealous nature made it difficult for him to trust his partner.
  • 3. desiring what someone else has.
    • Example: He was jealous of his brother's success in school.

Etymology

Middle English: from Old French 'jalous', from late Latin 'zelosus', from Greek 'zēlos' meaning 'zeal, jealousy'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

green-eyed monster:

A term for jealousy.

jealous of:

To feel envious of someone or something.

jealous heart:

A person who is prone to jealousy.

Related Words

envy:

A feeling of discontented or resentful longing aroused by someone else's possessions or qualities.

jealousy:

The state of being jealous, often accompanied by suspicion.

Slang Meanings of jealous

Meaning: To be jelly

Example Sentence: She's totally jelly of your new car.

Meaning: Green with envy

Example Sentence: He's green with envy over your vacation.