Cov″et (k?v″?t), v. t. [imp. & p. p.Covered; p. pr. & vb. n.Coveting.] [OF. coveitier, covoitier, F. convoiter, from a derivative fr. L. cupere to desire; cf. Skr. kup to become excited. Cf. Cupidity.]
1. To wish for with eagerness; to desire possession of; — used in a good sense.
Covet earnestly the best gifts.
1. Cor. xxii. 31.
If it be a sin to covet honor,
I am the most offending soul alive.
Shak.
2. To long for inordinately or unlawfully; to hanker after (something forbidden).
Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's house.
Ex. xx. 17.
Syn. — To long for; desire; hanker after; crave.