【Covetous】 , 【greedy】 , 【acquisitive】 , 【grasping】 , 【avaricious】 mean having or manifesting a strong desire for possessions, especially material possessions.

【Covetous】 implies inordinateness of desire; very often, with allusion to the Ten Commandments, it implies longing for something that is rightfully another’s. It is, however, used with derogatory intent or effect only when envy is implied or wrongful means of acquiring possession are suggested.

【Greedy】 emphasizes absence of restraint in desire; it is a censorious term only when the object of longing is evil either in itself or in immoderation, or cannot be possessed without harm to oneself or to others.

【Acquisitive】 implies not only eagerness to possess but the capacity for acquiring and retaining what is desired. Thus, an 【acquisitive】 mind is not only 【greedy】 for knowledge but is capable of absorbing it in large amounts; the 【acquisitive】 classes of society not only covet possessions but have the means whereby they can constantly add to their possessions.

【Grasping】 implies eagerness and capacity to acquire wealth and selfishness in its acquisition and often suggests use of wrongful or unfair means.

【Avaricious】 also implies eagerness and capacity to acquire wealth, but especially wealth in a form (as money) which can be hoarded. It, more than any of the others, emphasizes extreme stinginess.