invidious

in·vid·i·ous

adj \in-ˈvi-dē-əs\

Definition of INVIDIOUS

1

: tending to cause discontent, animosity, or envy <the invidious task of arbitration>

2

: envious

3

a : of an unpleasant or objectionable nature : obnoxious <invidious remarks> b : of a kind to cause harm or resentment <an invidious comparison>

— in·vid·i·ous·ly adverb

— in·vid·i·ous·ness noun

Examples of INVIDIOUS

1. The boss made invidious distinctions between employees.
2. <inevitably, his remarkable success attracted the invidious attention of the other sales representatives>

Origin of INVIDIOUS

Latin invidiosus envious, invidious, from invidia envy — more at envy

First Known Use: 1606

Related to INVIDIOUS

Synonyms: covetous, green-eyed, envious, jaundiced, jealous, resentful

Antonyms: unenvious

Related Words: begrudging, grudging; avaricious, grasping, greedy, rapacious; distrustful, suspicious; malicious, petty, spiteful

Near Antonyms: generous, kind, kindhearted; altruistic, benevolent, charitable; well-meaning

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Rhymes with INVIDIOUS

fastidious, insidious, perfidious