green-eyed monster

noun

1. jealousy.

   Othello fell under the sway of the green-eyed monster.

Word History and Origins

Origin of green-eyed monster¹

First recorded in 1595–1605

Idioms and Phrases

Jealousy, as in Bella knew that her husband sometimes succumbed to the green-eyed monster. This expression was coined by Shakespeare in Othello (3:3), where Iago says: “O! beware, my lord, of jealousy; it is the green-eyed monster which doth mock the meat it feeds on.” It is thought to allude to cats, often green-eyed, who tease their prey. Also see green with envy.

Example Sentences

If you’re wondering how to turn the so-called green-eyed monster into a positive force in your life, here are five steps to take.

From Seattle Times

It doesn’t matter what others are or aren’t doing or getting; envy is a green-eyed monster.

From Washington Post

The thing about the green-eyed monster is that it feeds most ravenously on real talent.

From Los Angeles Times

The truth is, as with many instances of envy, this strain of green-eyed monster is born of inequity.

From Washington Post

But seeing the large amounts of research funding being diverted to an area that overlaps with my own interests brings out the green-eyed monster in me.

From Nature