VocabDictionary

greed

/ɡriːd/intermediate Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

An intense and selfish desire for something, especially wealth, power, or food, far beyond one's actual needs.

Example Sentences:
  • The corporate scandal was driven by pure greed and a disregard for ethical standards.
  • He accumulated a vast fortune, but his endless greed left him constantly unsatisfied.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “greed”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Old English 'grǣdigness', related to 'grǣdig' (hungry, greedy), of Germanic origin. It is cognate with Old High German 'grātag' and Old Norse 'gráðugr', ultimately stemming from a root associated with hunger and the desire to consume.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of someone taking more than their **gr**eat **eed** (great need), even though they already have plenty.

Frequently Asked Questions About “greed

1. What is the meaning of “greed” in English?

In English, greed (noun) is defined as: “An intense and selfish desire for something, especially wealth, power, or food, far beyond one's actual needs.”.

2. How do you use “greed” in a sentence?

The corporate scandal was driven by pure greed and a disregard for ethical standards.

3. What are English synonyms of “greed”?

Common synonyms include:avarice,cupidity,rapacity,gluttony

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “greed”?

Derived from the Old English 'grǣdigness', related to 'grǣdig' (hungry, greedy), of Germanic origin. It is cognate with Old High German 'grātag' and Old Norse 'gráðugr', ultimately stemming from a root associated with hunger and the desire to consume.