greedy
19 synonyms and 0 antonyms for greedy, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Wanting or taking more than one needs, especially money, food, or power.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use greedy
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old English grǣdig, related to Gothic gredags ("hungry") — the underlying idea is a Proto-Germanic root for hunger.
Full origin of greedy →Frequently asked questions
What does “greedy” mean?
The word “greedy” means wanting or taking more than one needs, especially money, food, or power. In plain terms, wanting way more than your fair share, whether that's food, money, or attention.
How do you pronounce “greedy”?
“Greedy” is pronounced GREE-dee (/ˈɡɹiːdi/ in IPA).
How do you use “greedy” in a sentence?
Here is “greedy” used in a sentence: “The greedy landlord kept raising the rent every year.”
What is another word for “greedy”?
Words with a similar meaning to “greedy” include acquisitive, avaricious, cormorant, covetous, edacious and esurient.
What part of speech is “greedy”?
“Greedy” is an adjective.
Where does the word “greedy” come from?
The word “greedy” comes from Old English. From Old English grǣdig, related to Gothic gredags ("hungry") — the underlying idea is a Proto-Germanic root for hunger.
Is “greedy” a common word?
“Greedy” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
What is the difference between "greedy" and "selfish"?
"Greedy" specifically describes wanting or taking more than one needs, especially money, food, or power, while "selfish" more broadly describes putting one's own interests ahead of others' regardless of quantity. A person can be selfish without being greedy, for instance by refusing to share time or attention rather than material things.
Is "greedy" always used negatively?
Yes, "greedy" is almost always a negative or critical description, implying that someone is taking an unfair or excessive share. It is rarely used as a compliment, even in casual speech.
Can "greedy" be used about wanting things other than money?
Yes, "greedy" can describe excessive desire for food, power, attention, or any other resource, not just money, as in "greedy for praise" or "greedy eaters." The key sense is wanting more than is reasonable or fair.