greed
4 synonyms and 1 antonyms for greed, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — An excessive desire for more than one needs, especially money, food, or possessions.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use greed
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
A back-formation from the older adjective greedy, first recorded around 1600.
Full origin of greed →Frequently asked questions
What does “greed” mean?
The word “greed” means an excessive desire for more than one needs, especially money, food, or possessions. In plain terms, wanting far more than you actually need, especially of money or food, in a selfish way.
How do you pronounce “greed”?
“Greed” is pronounced greed (/ɡɹiːd/ in IPA).
How do you use “greed” in a sentence?
Here is “greed” used in a sentence: “His greed for profit led him to cut corners on safety.”
What is the opposite of “greed”?
The opposite of “greed” — its antonyms — is charity.
What part of speech is “greed”?
“Greed” is a noun.
Where does the word “greed” come from?
The word “greed” dates back to around 1600. A back-formation from the older adjective greedy, first recorded around 1600.
Is “greed” a common word?
“Greed” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between "greed" and "ambition"?
"Ambition" is a strong desire to achieve success or a specific goal and is often viewed neutrally or positively, while "greed" is an excessive desire for more than one needs, especially money or possessions, and carries a negative connotation. Ambition drives achievement, whereas greed implies taking more than is fair or necessary.
Is "greed" always considered a negative trait?
Yes, "greed" is almost always used negatively, describing an excessive and often selfish desire for money, food, or possessions beyond what one genuinely needs. It is commonly listed among traditional vices in ethical and religious discussions.
What is the difference between "greed" and "envy"?
"Greed" is the excessive desire to acquire more for oneself, especially money or possessions, while "envy" is resentment or longing directed at what someone else already has. Greed focuses on accumulation, while envy focuses on comparison to others.