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: a selfish and excessive desire for more of something (such as money) than is needed
motivated by naked ambition and greed
Synonyms
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
Each had their lives cut short while fighting the good fight against unchecked corporate greed and environmental destruction.
—Jamie Lang, Variety, 17 Oct. 2024
Prosecutors, meanwhile, claimed the boys wanted their inheritance and murdered their parents for greed.
—Nancy Dillon, Rolling Stone, 16 Oct. 2024
Hope, relief and greed dominated as prices began to rise once again.
—Mark Littler, Forbes, 30 Sep. 2024
Kathy Cady, who is representing Milton Andersen, Kitty Menendez's, said in an interview that her client does not believe his nephews were molested and that they were motivated by greed.
—Liz Kreutz, NBC News, 17 Oct. 2024
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Word History
Etymology
back-formation from greedy
First Known Use
1609, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near greed
Cite this Entry
“Greed.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/greed. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.
Kids Definition
greed
noun
: selfish desire for food, money, or possessions over and above one's needs
More from Merriam-Webster on greed
Nglish: Translation of greed for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of greed for Arabic Speakers
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