: a selfish and excessive desire for more of something (such as money) than is needed
motivated by naked ambition and greed
greed for money and power
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
Robin Hood has long been a mascot for anyone who opposes tyranny, greed and corruption.
—
Brian Davids, HollywoodReporter, 22 June 2026
Where does one look for models if élites and powerful decision-makers seem to have ascended through nepotism or greed rather than through merit?
—Hua Hsu, New Yorker, 22 June 2026
The Australian psych-rock band’s latest features dense, detailed songwriting about corporate greed and the environment, but the music lacks its nuance and ambition.
—Cassidy Sollazzo, Pitchfork, 19 June 2026
There’s a lot that feels timely about greed versus governance and myths and propaganda.
—Stuart Miller, Oc Register, 17 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for greed
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.
Brian Davids, HollywoodReporter, 22 June 2026
Where does one look for models if élites and powerful decision-makers seem to have ascended through nepotism or greed rather than through merit?
—Hua Hsu, New Yorker, 22 June 2026
The Australian psych-rock band’s latest features dense, detailed songwriting about corporate greed and the environment, but the music lacks its nuance and ambition.
—Cassidy Sollazzo, Pitchfork, 19 June 2026
There’s a lot that feels timely about greed versus governance and myths and propaganda.
—Stuart Miller, Oc Register, 17 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for greed
Cite this Entry
“Greed.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/greed. Accessed 24 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
greed
noun
: selfish desire for food, money, or possessions over and above one's needs
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
