concupere

Concupere is a Latin verb that is not widely attested in classical usage. It is generally treated as a rare or variant form of concupiscere, which means to desire, covet, or lust after. In standard Latin, concupiscere is the common verb for this sense, while concupere appears only in a few late or nonstandard texts and is often considered obsolete or erroneous by modern grammars.

Etymology and related forms: Concupere is presumed to be formed from the prefix con- plus cupere, “to desire.” The root cupere gives rise to related terms such as concupiscentia (desire, lust) and concupiscens (desiring). These derivatives appear regularly in both classical and medieval Latin, especially in theological and moral contexts.

Usage and context: Because concupere is obscure, most dictionaries treat it as a variant spelling rather than a distinct, widely used infinitive. When Latin authors intend the sense of strong desire or covetousness, they more often employ concupiscere or, in theological Latin, concupiscens and concupiscentia. Theologically, the related noun concupiscentia is central in discussions of human inclination toward sin.

See also: concupiscere, concupiscentia, concupiscent, concupiscens, Augustine, Catholic Church.

Notes: For reliable Latin usage, consult a standard dictionary such as Lewis and Short or contemporary ecclesiastical Latin references, which favor concupiscere and its derivatives over concupere.