materialism

noun

ma·​te·​ri·​al·​ism mə-ˈtir-ē-ə-ˌli-zəm 

1

a

: a theory that physical matter is the only or fundamental reality and that all being and processes and phenomena can be explained as manifestations or results of matter (see matter entry 1 sense 2)

scientific materialism

b

: a doctrine that the only or the highest values or objectives lie in material well-being and in the furtherance of material progress

c

: a doctrine that economic or social change is materially caused compare historical materialism

2

: a preoccupation with or stress upon material rather than intellectual or spiritual things

… materialism, hedonism, and the overriding quest for personal gratification.

—Arthur M. Schlesinger, Jr.

materialist

mə-ˈtir-ē-ə-list 

noun or adjective

Examples of materialism in a Sentence

the materialism of modern society

Recent Examples on the Web

Because materialism had an irreligious connotation, Hattem says it was left out of the national conversation until the Gilded Age of the 1920s, when people start saying the quiet part out loud. — Cari Shane, USA Today, 25 June 2026

In an industry that too often celebrates materialism and misogyny, Yates’s introspective lyrics and intriguing production style are refreshing reminders of what’s missing in mainstream rap. — Kyle Eustice, SPIN, 23 June 2026

It was revered for its intelligent satire of modern society and materialism, providing sight gags and slapstick humor for kids while proving relatable for young adults learning to navigate life. — Skyler Trepel, Entertainment Weekly, 20 June 2026

This is a guy who could write these incredibly bigoted figures, and then also write this really searing indictment of American materialism. — Elisabeth Garber-Paul, Rolling Stone, 19 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1696, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing materialism

• anti-materialism
• dialectical materialism
• historical materialism

Rhymes for materialism

• activism
• albinism
• altruism
• aneurism
• animism
• aphorism
• atomism
• barbarism
• bolshevism
• botulism
• brahmanism
• calvinism

Kids Definition

materialism

noun

ma·​te·​ri·​al·​ism mə-ˈtir-ē-ə-ˌliz-əm 

1

: a theory that everything can be explained as being or coming from matter

2

: a tendency to attach too much importance to physical comfort and well-being

materialist

-ē-ə-ləst 

noun or adjective

materialistic

-ˌtir-ē-ə-ˈlis-tik 

adjective