\Av"a*rice\ ([a^]v"[.a]*r[i^]s), n. [F. avaritia, fr.
avarus avaricious, prob. fr. av[=e]re to covet, fr. a root av
to satiate one's self: cf. Gr. 'a`menai, 'a^sai, to satiate,
Skr. av to satiate one's self, rejoice, protect.]
1. An excessive or inordinate desire of gain; greediness
   after wealth; covetousness; cupidity.
         To desire money for its own sake, and in order to
         hoard it up, is avarice.              --Beattie.
2. An inordinate desire for some supposed good.
         All are taught an avarice of praise.  --Goldsmith.