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 The schemes may have gotten more sophisticated, the crooks more innovative and the methods, such as using technology, more advanced, but the goal is the same: greed. Oline H. Cogdill, Sun Sentinel, 26 June 2024 Because of greed, the treasure remains on the sea floor. Big Think, 24 June 2024 But the film has only become more enshrined in the canon in the decades since, in particular for Towne’s script: a grim portrait of uninhibited greed shaping Los Angeles in the 30’s, celebrated as one of the best — and often cited as the best — screenplay in history. J. Kim Murphy, Variety, 22 June 2024 But a rival might perceive that move as excessive and a sign of greed. Charles L. Glaser, Foreign Affairs, 18 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for greed 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'greed.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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 7 Jul. 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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