consumerism

noun

con·sum·er·ism kən-ˈsü-mə-ˌri-zəm

-mər-ˌi-

: the theory that an increasing consumption of goods is economically desirable

also : a preoccupation with and an inclination toward the buying of consumer goods

… the contemporary marketplace is shaped solely by the craven needs of lowbrow consumerism … —

Thomas Byrne Edsall

: the promotion of the consumer's interests

consumerist

kən-ˈsü-mə-rist

-mər-ist

noun or adjective

consumeristic

kən-ˌsü-mə-ˈri-stik

-mər-ˈi-

adjective

Example Sentences

concerns about increasing consumerism among teenagers

Recent Examples on the Web The pandemic, while undoubtedly devastating and tragic, seemingly prompted soul-searching among many, and a demand for more than insatiable capitalism and consumerism could offer. —

Mike Weinberger, Rolling Stone, 23 Feb. 2023 As in the novel, love and death, consumerism and chemicals, a sense of home and a sense of horror are woven throughout. —

Josh Zajdman, Town & Country, 30 Dec. 2022 Libba Bray has written a biting satire of consumerism and girlboss feminism for the young-adult set. —

Jessica Gentile, Vulture, 21 Jan. 2022 The piece investigates American consumerism through fairy tale imagery and absurdist performances. —

Los Angeles Times, 15 Feb. 2023 Mujica also preached a return to simplicity, addressing the United Nations General Assembly in 2013 to promote the values of love and solidarity over consumerism and the creation of wealth. —

Quartz, 2 Feb. 2023 And Elvis Presley helped reveal that consumerism — despite its many drawbacks — has the potential to break down barriers that separate people. —

Michael T. Bertrand, CNN, 16 Jan. 2023 Businesses that lead the way and take the task of reimagining wasteful consumerism seriously will be in a position of resilience, posed to thrive, not just survive. —

Rolling Stone Culture Council, Rolling Stone, 11 Jan. 2023 Everyone can learn about the brain’s tricks and resist the seduction of false friends like social media and excessive consumerism. —

Jamie Ducharme, Time, 5 Jan. 2023 See More

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'consumerism.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.