greed - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
greed Word Meanings
- An insatiable desire for wealth or possessions.
- An excessive or selfish desire for more of something than is needed or deserved.
- The quality of being greedy, or a greedy person.
greed Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
greed Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/griːd/
US
/ɡriːd/
greed Word Etymology
Root decomposition: base noun greed; no prefix; suffix -y creates greedy and -iness creates greediness. Historical origin: from Old English greed, of Germanic origin; not borrowed from Latin or Greek. Memory image: imagine a miser gripping a pile of coins, eyes fixed on price tags as they greedily count and hoard.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Greed is an insatiable, selfish desire to acquire more wealth, power, or possessions than one needs or deserves. It often leads people to act unethically, hoard resources, or neglect others in pursuit of money. In everyday speech, greed is a strongly negative trait linked to a lack of generosity and restraint. The word is used across literature, politics, and ethical discussions to critique unbounded desire and its consequences for communities and relationships. Although ambition and drive can be positive, greed implies excess and a willingness to harm others to obtain more. Its Old English-Germanic roots sit alongside other moral terms that warn against exploitation.
Usage Reminders
- don’t confuse greed with ambition
- greed is not the same as desire to improve
- common collocations: greed for money, greediness, greedy person
- avoid 'greedy' for neutral contexts like simply wanting more
- be careful with synonyms like avarice and cupidity
Common Misconceptions
- Greed equals ambition or a normal desire to succeed
- Greed is only about money
- Greed is the same as wanting more in general
- Greed always harms others
- Greed can be overcome with enough willpower alone
Thinking Differences
English tends to treat greed as a morally charged trait and uses concrete contrasts with generosity or restraint; learners should note strong negative connotations and typical collocations.
Learning Tips
- Learn the noun form greed; note related forms greedy and greediness
- Use in negative contexts to contrast with generosity
- Practice collocations: greed for money, greediness, greedy person
- Distinguish greed from ambition or desire to improve
- Watch for cultural context in ethics or business discussions
- Review synonyms: avarice, cupidity
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'greed'?
A.Lust
B.Generosity
C.Hunger
D.Envy
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'greed' correctly?
A.The cat greedily ate all the food in one go.
B.Her greed for knowledge inspired her to pursue higher education.
C.He showed greed by sharing his lunch with a friend.
D.His greed for power was evident in his actions.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'greed'?
A.Contentment
B.Avarice
C.Altruism
D.Compassion
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'greed'?
A.Generosity
B.Gluttony
C.Gumption
D.Grief
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where 'greed' might be detrimental?
A.In a business setting, prioritizing profits over ethical practices.
B.Manifesting in excessive consumption and disregard for environmental impact.
C.Refusing to share resources with those in need for selfish reasons.
D.Demonstrating inconsiderate behavior towards others in pursuit of personal gain.
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App