Rapacity

Pronunciation: \rə-ˈpa-sə-tē\

Definition: excessively grasping or covetous

Etymology: Latin rapac-, rapax, from rapere to seize


First Known Use: 1651

I read this sentence, "The rapacity and corruption of Indian Agents." in the novel Doc by Marie Doria Russell, page 82. I had never heard heard this word before and now I have added a new item to my vocabulary!