ENGLISH
REFERENCE

greed

n. uncountable
B1 Intermediate US //ˈɡɹid// UK //ɡɹˈiːd// greed

n. a very strong desire for more of something than you actually need. It usually refers to wanting too much money, food, or power.

n. an excessive or insatiable desire for wealth, possessions, or food beyond what is necessary for basic needs. Often carries a strong moral or ethical disapproval.


SIMPLE

His greed for money led him to make some bad choices.

CONTEXTUAL

The company's downfall was caused by the pure greed of its executives, who ignored safety to increase profits.

COMPLEX

Philosophers have long debated whether greed is an inherent part of human nature or a learned behavior driven by the competitive structures of modern society.

Synonyms
Origin

c. 1600. Back-formation from greedy.

© 2026 English Reference