greed

noun

ˈgrēd How to pronounce greed (audio)
Synonyms of greednext
: a selfish and excessive desire for more of something (such as money) than is needed
motivated by naked ambition and greed

Synonyms

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Examples of greed in a Sentence

He was a ruthless businessman, motivated by naked ambition and greed. don't let greed for riches control you
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
That same passion for justice has inspired her to write novels and screenplays about women with strong moral compasses who fight for what’s right against corporate greed, right-wing environmental forces, unjust legal prosecutions, and toxic masculinity. — Dominic Patten, Deadline, 13 Mar. 2025 This story of greed is the lightest of Albert’s three stories. — Mary Ann Grossmann, Twin Cities, 10 Mar. 2025 In Kennedy’s view, Americans are not uniquely beset by a privatized fee-for-service labyrinth characterized by administrative bloat, scant price regulation, a hospital system hollowed out by private equity, and rampant, grotesque greed. — Jessica Winter, The New Yorker, 8 Mar. 2025 Jesse once again raises the bar with a bold examination of modern greed, power and male ambition. — Russel Honoré, Newsweek, 6 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for greed

Word History

Etymology

back-formation from greedy

First Known Use

1609, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of greed was in 1609

Rhymes for greed

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Browse Nearby Words

greed
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Cite this Entry

“Greed.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/greed. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

greed

noun
ˈgrēd How to pronounce greed (audio)
: selfish desire for food, money, or possessions over and above one's needs

More from Merriam-Webster on greed

Nglish: Translation of greed for Spanish Speakers

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