consumerism
noun
con·sum·er·ism
kən-ˈsü-mə-ˌri-zəm 
-mər-ˌi-
1
: the theory that an increasing consumption of goods is economically desirable
also
: a preoccupation with and an inclination toward the buying of consumer goods
… the contemporary marketplace is shaped solely by the craven needs of lowbrow consumerism … —
Thomas Byrne Edsall
Thomas Byrne Edsall 2
: the promotion of the consumer's interests
Examples of consumerism in a Sentence
concerns about increasing consumerism among teenagers
Recent Examples on the Web
For these teens, this lifestyle can be both a personal philosophy and a social identity, reflecting a growing awareness of global issues like consumerism and health.
—Hannah Nwoko, Parents, 14 May 2025
In an age of conscious consumerism and rapid innovation, companies that articulate their purpose clearly and live it visibly are more likely to earn both market share and mindshare.
—Brent Gleeson, Forbes.com, 13 May 2025
But this portrait of the unseen labor that fuels the world’s consumerism is also intensely watchable — like reality television, but without the sensationalism or manipulation.
—Devika Girish, New York Times, 2 May 2025
In director Harron’s original American Psycho, Bale’s sinister character — who may or may not be a serial killer — satirizes 1980s white-collar American culture and consumerism.
—Jen Juneau, People.com, 29 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for consumerism
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Hannah Nwoko, Parents, 14 May 2025
In an age of conscious consumerism and rapid innovation, companies that articulate their purpose clearly and live it visibly are more likely to earn both market share and mindshare.
—Brent Gleeson, Forbes.com, 13 May 2025
But this portrait of the unseen labor that fuels the world’s consumerism is also intensely watchable — like reality television, but without the sensationalism or manipulation.
—Devika Girish, New York Times, 2 May 2025
In director Harron’s original American Psycho, Bale’s sinister character — who may or may not be a serial killer — satirizes 1980s white-collar American culture and consumerism.
—Jen Juneau, People.com, 29 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for consumerism
Cite this Entry
“Consumerism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/consumerism. Accessed 29 May. 2025.
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consumerism
noun
con·sum·er·ism
kən-ˈsü-mə-ˌriz-əm
: the promotion of the consumer's interests
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