greed

noun

: a selfish and excessive desire for more of something (such as money) than is needed
motivated by naked ambition and greed

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.
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 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

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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