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: a selfish and excessive desire for more of something (such as money) than is needed
motivated by naked ambition and greed
Synonyms
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
People are really unhappy with CEOs, corporate greed, etc.
—ABC News, 24 Jan. 2025
The Righteous Gemstones tells the story of a world-famous televangelist family with a long tradition of deviance, greed, and charitable work.
—Katie Campione, Deadline, 23 Jan. 2025
Their presence sparked instant outrage online and by Black members of the media like Don Lemon who called out the hypocrisy and greed of these performers, and particularly Snoop Dogg who previously had a lot to say about Kanye West and other Trump-supporting Black celebrities.
—Brea Baker, refinery29.com, 20 Jan. 2025
Many of the games Donaldson presents are meant to test the competitors’ individual need—or, perhaps, greed—against their commitment to the group.
—Naomi Fry, The New Yorker, 18 Jan. 2025
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Word History
Etymology
back-formation from greedy
First Known Use
1609, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near greed
Cite this Entry
“Greed.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/greed. Accessed 30 Jan. 2025.
Kids Definition
greed
noun
: 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
Britannica English: Translation of greed for Arabic Speakers
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