ra·pa·cious \rəˈpāshəs\adjective Etymology: Latin rapac-, rapax rapacious, (from rapere to seize and carry off, snatch away) + -ious — more at rapid 1.: excessively grasping or covetous : given to seizing or extorting what is coveted < rapacious invaders > 2.: subsisting on prey : predacious < the rapacious wolf > 3.: ravenous < a rapacious appetite > Synonyms:see voracious