The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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greed

noun

/grid/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of greed

An intense and selfish desire for excessive wealth, possessions, or power.
"His insatiable greed for money drove him to engage in illegal activities."

Detailed meaning of greed

It is a negative quality that is characterized by an insatiable appetite for more than what is necessary or reasonable. Greed is often associated with a lack of moral restraint or consideration for others, as individuals driven by greed prioritize their own material gain over the well-being of others or the greater good. Greed can lead to unethical or immoral behavior, such as hoarding wealth, exploiting others, or engaging in dishonest practices. It can create an unquenchable thirst for accumulation and an obsession with personal gain at the expense of others. Greed is considered a vice or a destructive force that can lead to societal inequality, corruption, and moral decay. It stands in contrast to virtues such as generosity, contentment, and selflessness.

Example sentences containing greed

1. The CEO's greed led to the company's downfall as he prioritized personal profits over sustainability.
2. The politician's greed for power drove them to make unethical decisions and exploit their constituents.
3. The financial crisis was fueled by the greed of those seeking quick and excessive profits.
4. The movie depicted the consequences of greed, showcasing the downfall of a once respected character.
5. The corruption scandal exposed the extent of greed and unethical behavior within the organization.
6. The story warned about the dangers of greed, illustrating how it can destroy relationships and lives.

History and etymology of greed

The noun 'greed' has its origins in Middle English and is connected to the Old English word 'græd,' which meant 'greed' or 'voracity.' It can be traced back further to the Proto-Germanic word '*gredaz,' which had a similar meaning of 'greed' or 'hunger.' The etymology of 'greed' is linked to the intense and selfish desire for excessive wealth, possessions, or power. The historical root '*gredaz' implies a strong and insatiable craving, often associated with an unquenchable appetite for more. This concept has remained consistent in the word 'greed' throughout its linguistic evolution, describing the relentless pursuit of material gain or personal advantage at the expense of others, driven by an insatiable desire for more.

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Further usage examples of greed

1. The billionaire's greed for luxury possessions knew no bounds.
2. The public expressed outrage at the corporate executives' greed and lack of accountability.
3. The book explored the theme of greed and its impact on human behavior and society.
4. The charity event aimed to combat poverty and alleviate the effects of greed and inequality.
5. The fable taught children the importance of sharing and not succumbing to greed.
6. Greed often leads to unethical decisions in the pursuit of wealth.
7. The CEO's greed knew no bounds as he amassed his fortune.
8. Greed can corrode even the strongest bonds of friendship.
9. Society must address the root causes of greed for a better future.
10. Her greed for power blinded her to the needs of the people.
11. Greed can transform even the most generous person.
12. The allure of greed can be a dangerous temptation.
13. History is rife with tales of the destructive power of greed.
14. Overcoming one's own greed is a lifelong journey.
15. Greed drove him to betray those who trusted him.
16. The consequences of greed can be catastrophic.
17. His greed for recognition overshadowed his talents.
18. The world suffers from the consequences of unchecked greed.
19. Greed can turn allies into bitter rivals.
20. Society must find ways to curb the influence of greed.
21. Greed often masks deeper insecurities and fears.
22. Greed has the power to corrupt even the noblest intentions.
23. Greed blinds individuals to the suffering of others.
24. The insatiable hunger of greed can never be satisfied.
25. Greed is a dark force that can consume the human soul.