# consumerism

/kənˈsumɝˌɪzəm/ (US) · /kənsˈuːməɹˌɪzəm/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/consumerism
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

the belief that buying things is the most important way to be happy or successful. It is also the system where companies make and sell products to people who want to buy them.

For teachers: the social and economic system in which the production and consumption of goods and services is the primary focus of economic activity. It also refers to the ideology that the acquisition of material possessions is the most important aspect of life.

## Examples

- The rise of consumerism has changed how we shop.
- Many environmentalists argue that modern consumerism is leading to a rapid depletion of natural resources.

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