Feb 08, 2006 08:38
Adjective
1. Fearful or wary of being supplanted; apprehensive of losing affection or position. 2. a. Resentful or bitter in rivalry; envious: jealous of the success of others. b. Inclined to suspect rivalry. 3. Having to do with or arising from feelings of envy, apprehension, or bitterness: jealous thoughts. 4. Vigilant in guarding something: We are jealous of our good name. 5. Intolerant of disloyalty or infidelity; autocratic: a jealous God.
Etymology
Middle English jelous, from Old French gelos, jealous, zealous, from Vulgar Latin *z*l*sus, from Late Latin z*lus, zeal ; see zeal.
Other forms
jeal'ous·ly adv.jeal'ous·ness n.