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

—A. 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

In each instance, Hartman and Hooks play the Trumps as apathetic tyrants of capitalistic materialism, using both as stand-ins to ridicule the mindless excess of the period. —Harrison Richlin, IndieWire, 15 Feb. 2025

Pop culture in the era found kids whose values did not align with the growing corporatization and materialism governing America's mainstream stage diving during punk shows at art houses and VFW halls. —Marcus K. Dowling, The Tennessean, 14 June 2024

Competition for money might promote ideas about materialism, conflict, or even violence that won't be appropriate for all kids. —Miranda Rake, Parents, 27 Nov. 2024

An increasing number of us value experiences over materialism, seeking out new destinations instead of the latest hair dryer in a reverse of the Keeping up with the Joneses mentality. —Connor Sturges, Condé Nast Traveler, 27 Nov. 2024

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

• absolutism
• adventurism
• aestheticism
• africanism
• agnosticism
• alcoholism
• anabolism
• anachronism
• anglicanism
• antagonism
• arianism
• asceticism

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