greed

noun

\ ˈgrēd

Definition of greed

: a selfish and excessive desire for more of something (such as money) than is needed motivated by naked ambition and greed

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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

The greed of companies like Walmart at the expense of working people will end. — NBC News, "Bernie Sanders brings battle against 'greed' inside Walmart shareholders meeting," 5 June 2019 The book is a delightful read — think Elmore Leonard meets Carl Hiaasen — with an undercurrent of greed and consequences. — Carolyn Kellogg, latimes.com, "Adrift in Los Angeles: Mark Haskell Smith and his book, 'Blown'," 22 June 2018 As envisioned by director Nicolas Roeg, the alien’s embrace of earthly greed and excess makes a statement about capitalism and consumerism. — John Monaghan, Detroit Free Press, "Sci-fi classics invade the DIA for film series tied to 'Star Wars' exhibit," 7 June 2018 The switch is usually the byproduct of overthinking mixed with greed, and a dash of unfamiliarity with success. — Peter Dunn, Indianapolis Star, "Pete the Planner: You saved for a big expense. Don't let greed or overthinking derail you.," 3 Jan. 2018 During the 2008 financial crisis, Citi was presented as the victim of events beyond its control -- the larger financial panic, unforeseen economic disruptions, and a perfect storm of credit expansion, private greed, and public incompetence. — Fox News, "'Borrowed Time: Two Centuries of Booms, Busts, and Bailouts at Citi' by James Freeman and Vern McKinley," 6 Aug. 2018 Today, greed and exploitation continue to mark businesses as morally bankrupt, but so does failure to speak out during an age when many refuse to tolerate silence, politeness, and thoughts and prayers any longer. — Nadra Nittle, Vox, "Companies used to stay quiet about politics. In 2018, social causes became integral to their branding.," 17 Dec. 2018 The affidavit points to financial greed as the likely motive. — Curt Anderson, miamiherald, "He said his wife vanished while they were sailing. Now he’s charged with killing her.," 20 Feb. 2018 Kent for example, portrays a lesson about greed with his Ignoble End style sock. — Craig Montague, Town & Country, "Not Your Grandfather's Socks," 22 Aug. 2014

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'greed.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.