What does "jealousy" mean?

1. (envy of others) the feeling of being angry or sad because you want something that someone else has. 2. (romantic suspicion) the feeling of being worried or angry because you think a person you love is interested in someone else.

Is it correct to say "He felt jealousy for his friend's new car."?

No — say "He felt jealousy of his friend's new car.". While 'envy of' and 'envy for' are both used, 'jealousy' most naturally takes the preposition 'of'.

jealousy

US //ˈdʒɛɫəsi// UK //dʒˈɛləsi// jeal·ousy

1 envy of others (n.)
B1 Intermediate

the feeling of being angry or sad because you want something that someone else has.

resentment or envy directed toward someone because of their success, possessions, or perceived advantages.

Example

He felt a sharp pang of jealousy when he saw his neighbor's new car.

Example

Professional jealousy among the researchers hindered the project, as several team members refused to share their data for fear of being overshadowed.
- envy
- resentment
- covetousness
- contentment
- admiration
Pitfall

He felt jealousy for his friend's new car.

He felt jealousy of his friend's new car.

While 'envy of' and 'envy for' are both used, 'jealousy' most naturally takes the preposition 'of'.
2 romantic suspicion (n.)
B1 Intermediate

the feeling of being worried or angry because you think a person you love is interested in someone else.

suspicion or fear of rivalry, specifically regarding the perceived unfaithfulness of a romantic partner.

Example

Her constant jealousy made it very difficult for them to stay in a relationship.

Example

The play explores how unfounded jealousy can slowly erode the foundation of a marriage, leading to tragic misunderstandings.
- suspicion
- distrust
- possessiveness
- trust
- confidence

Origin

From Middle English jalousie, from Old French jalousie, equivalent to jealous + -y. Doublet of jalousie. Related also to zeal, zealous.