Synonyms for

Greed

Verb / gri:d / Another word for greed — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Greed is a strong desire to have more wealth, power, or possessions than what one needs or deserves.

Synonyms & similar words

rapacity avarice avaritia covetousness avarice covetousness acquisitiveness materialism cupidity rapacity selfishness grasping ambition desire craving longing hunger thirst itch yearning lust passion obsession infatuation

Synonyms by register

Formal

avarice cupidity acquisitiveness

Informal

covetousness stinginess miserliness

Literary

rapacity insatiability

Antonyms

generosity charity benevolence altruism selflessness munificence

Common collocations

  • greed for power
  • greed for money
  • blind greed
  • unbridled greed
  • insatiable greed
  • corporate greed
  • political greed

Word family

noun greed
verb gree
adjective greedy
adverb greedily

Usage note

Greed often carries a strong negative connotation, implying an excessive and selfish desire for more than one needs or deserves. It is distinct from ambition, which is a desire for achievement or success.

Example sentences

  1. His greed for candy made him take more than his share.
  2. The CEO's greed for money led to the company's downfall.
  3. The politician's greed for power corrupted him.
  4. Greed can lead to unethical behavior.
  5. The dragon's greed for treasure caused it to hoard gold and jewels.

Quotes

  • Greed is a bottomless pit which exhausts the person in an endless effort to satisfy the need without ever reaching satisfaction. -Erich Fromm
  • Greed is not a financial issue. It's a heart issue. -Andy Stanley
  • Greed, for lack of a better word, is good. -Gordon Gekko

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