: 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
Some rabbinic readings attribute Lot’s hesitation to leave Sodom to his immoral greed and inordinate wealth.
—
Encyclopedia Britannica,
2 July 2026
Many individuals fall prey to emotional pitfalls like fear, greed, or shame, leading to impulsive spending, credit card debt, and neglecting long-term goals like retirement.
—
Bygabriel Shahin,
Forbes.com,
1 July 2026
Chevalier’s campaign, like those of other DSA candidates, has focused on affordability, fighting corporate greed, and similar progressive themes.
—
Jonathan Chait,
The Atlantic,
1 July 2026
Released at the tail end of Reaganomics, Carpenter’s most politically forward thriller now feels like a decoder ring for ’80s-era greed, detachment, complacency and ruthlessness.
—
Glenn Whipp,
Los Angeles Times,
29 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for greed
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Encyclopedia Britannica,
2 July 2026
Many individuals fall prey to emotional pitfalls like fear, greed, or shame, leading to impulsive spending, credit card debt, and neglecting long-term goals like retirement.
—
Bygabriel Shahin,
Forbes.com,
1 July 2026
Chevalier’s campaign, like those of other DSA candidates, has focused on affordability, fighting corporate greed, and similar progressive themes.
—
Jonathan Chait,
The Atlantic,
1 July 2026
Released at the tail end of Reaganomics, Carpenter’s most politically forward thriller now feels like a decoder ring for ’80s-era greed, detachment, complacency and ruthlessness.
—
Glenn Whipp,
Los Angeles Times,
29 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 5 Jul. 2026.
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greed
noun
: selfish desire for food, money, or possessions over and above one's needs
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