greed

noun

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

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.
As the dynasty outsider, Henry (Boszhardt) must battle his ruthless stepmother (Gershon), who is under the influence of a demon that feeds on greed. Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 24 Sep. 2025 The lawyer said greed is the driving factor behind the way the devices are manufactured, and called on the industry to do better. Kristen Jordan Shamus, Freep.com, 22 Sep. 2025 Human behavior, driven by greed, is a recurring villain. Steve Booren, Denver Post, 21 Sep. 2025 Mammon, the lord of avarice and demon god of greed and money. Brian Truitt, USA Today, 20 Sep. 2025 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 26 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

greed

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

More from Merriam-Webster on greed

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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