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
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.
Dust icily exposes how character can evaporate in the crucible of greed, but the plodding pace makes this ethical exercise feel attenuated and flat by the time the climax rolls around. Leslie Felperin, HollywoodReporter, 16 Feb. 2026 Corporate greed is out of control. Ticked Off, The Orlando Sentinel, 11 Feb. 2026 The synth-heavy soundtrack is back, nodding to the greed-is-good eighties while evoking both an ultra-contemporary cool and an inhuman chill. Inkoo Kang, New Yorker, 9 Feb. 2026 The expediency and greed of the fast-moving artificial intelligence industry are the motivators, and health and safety are no longer of paramount concern. Chicago Tribune, 8 Feb. 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 21 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

greed

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

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