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
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The family story that intertwines for centuries with this land, this place, is researched and discovered in the writing, and so not lost, yet the land itself is largely lost, to industry, exploitation, greed. Literary Hub, 21 Apr. 2026 There seems to be a desire to say something about the greed and corruption at the heart of American western mythology this season. Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 20 Apr. 2026 As greed ignites and alliances crumble, everyone is willing to kill for a chance at the money. Alex Ritman, Variety, 20 Apr. 2026 Dea Coschignano, Wheat Ridge Troy Renck’s column in this Thursday’s Denver Post said it best, regarding the great NBA greed factor. Dp Opinion, Denver Post, 17 Apr. 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 24 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

greed

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

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