An Etymological Dictionary of the German Language/Neid

by Friedrich Kluge

Neid, m., ‘envy, grudge,’ from MidHG. nît (gen. nîdes), m., ‘hostile disposition, warlike fury, grudge, jealousy, envy,’ OHG. nîd, m., ‘hatred, anger, envy.’ It corresponds to OSax. nîð, m., ‘zeal, hostile conflict, hatred,’ Du. nijd, m., ‘envy,’ AS. nîþ, m., ‘endeavour, effort, hostility’ (obsolete in E.). In East Teut. the corresponding word is neut., Goth. neiþ, n., ‘envy,’ OIc. nið, n., ‘disgrace, opprobrious term.’ Teut. *nîþa-, connected with Lat. nîtor, ‘to exert oneself’? —