greed

noun

Synonyms of greednext
: 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
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.
The most popular American sport, long recession-proof, forever immune to greed’s side effects, is prepared to stain its legacy. Troy Renck, Denver Post, 30 Mar. 2026 But today, their company Lehman Brothers — which catastrophically collapsed in bankruptcy in 2008 — is remembered as a textbook case for the pitfalls of unchecked greed, corruption and moral bankruptcy. Pam Kragen, San Diego Union-Tribune, 29 Mar. 2026 The musical reimagines the Greek myths while ruminating on greed, labor and love. Domenica Bongiovanni, IndyStar, 25 Mar. 2026 The families of Anderson and Carlson are suing Harris County, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez and LaSalle Corrections, alleging medical negligence and corporate greed led to the two men's deaths. Caroline Wilburn, Houston Chronicle, 19 Mar. 2026 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Greed.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/greed. Accessed 1 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

greed

noun
: selfish desire for food, money, or possessions over and above one's needs

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