Top 30 Slang For Greed – Meaning & Usage

Greed is a universal concept that has its own set of expressions in modern slang. From “money-hungry” to “cash grab,” our team has curated a list of the top slang terms that capture the essence of this insatiable desire. Get ready to dive into the world of slang for greed and expand your vocabulary with us!

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1. Grasping

This term describes someone who is excessively greedy or desirous of acquiring wealth or possessions. It implies a strong desire to obtain something, often at the expense of others.

For instance, a person might be described as “grasping” if they constantly try to take advantage of others for personal gain.
In a discussion about corporate greed, one might say, “The executives’ grasping nature led to unethical practices.”
A character in a novel might be portrayed as “grasping” if they are constantly scheming to acquire more wealth.

2. Acquisitiveness

This term refers to the tendency to value material possessions and wealth above all else. It implies a strong desire to accumulate and acquire things, often at the expense of other aspects of life.

For example, a person who constantly seeks to buy the latest gadgets and designer clothing might be described as “acquisitive.”
In a discussion about consumerism, one might argue, “Our society’s acquisitiveness is driving unsustainable levels of consumption.”
A character in a movie might be portrayed as “acquisitive” if they are obsessed with amassing wealth and possessions.

3. Greediness

This term describes someone who has an insatiable appetite for wealth or possessions. It implies an intense desire to consume and acquire, often without regard for others or ethical considerations.

For instance, a person might be described as “greedy” if they constantly hoard resources and refuse to share with others.
In a discussion about income inequality, one might say, “The greediness of the top 1% is exacerbating social disparities.”
A character in a play might be portrayed as “greedy” if they are willing to do anything to accumulate more wealth.

4. Rapaciousness

This term describes someone who is excessively greedy and predatory in their pursuit of wealth or resources. It implies a ruthlessness and willingness to exploit others for personal gain.

For example, a company that engages in predatory lending practices might be described as “rapacious.”
In a discussion about the exploitation of natural resources, one might argue, “The rapaciousness of corporations is causing irreversible damage to the environment.”
A character in a novel might be portrayed as “rapacious” if they manipulate and deceive others to further their own financial interests.

5. Avariciousness

This term refers to an extreme greed or covetousness for wealth or possessions. It implies an intense desire for material gain and often connotes a lack of moral restraint.

For instance, a person who is willing to exploit others for personal financial gain might be described as “avaricious.”
In a discussion about the negative effects of capitalism, one might argue, “The avariciousness of corporations is driving income inequality.”
A character in a play might be portrayed as “avaricious” if they are obsessed with accumulating wealth at any cost.

6. Mercenariness

Mercenariness refers to the strong desire for financial gain or material wealth. It is often used to describe someone who is solely motivated by money and is willing to do anything to achieve it.

For example, a person might say, “His mercenariness knows no bounds; he will do whatever it takes to make more money.”
In a discussion about corporate greed, someone might comment, “The mercenariness of these CEOs is destroying our economy.”
A critic might describe a movie character as, “A perfect portrayal of mercenariness, he will betray anyone for a quick buck.”

7. Greed

Greed is a strong and selfish desire for wealth, power, or possessions. It is often associated with an excessive and insatiable appetite for more, regardless of the consequences.

For instance, a person might say, “His greed knows no bounds; he will stop at nothing to accumulate more wealth.”
In a discussion about income inequality, someone might argue, “The greed of the top 1% is widening the wealth gap.”
A critic might describe a character in a novel as, “A symbol of greed, he hoards riches while others suffer.”

8. Money-grubbing

Money-grubbing refers to the act of obsessively seeking money or wealth. It is often used to describe someone who is constantly focused on financial gain and is willing to do anything to acquire it.

For example, a person might say, “She is so money-grubbing, she will take advantage of anyone to make a profit.”
In a discussion about unethical business practices, someone might comment, “The money-grubbing of these executives is harming consumers.”
A critic might describe a character in a play as, “A perfect representation of money-grubbing, he is always scheming to get more.”

9. Materialism

Materialism is the excessive focus on material possessions and their importance. It is often associated with valuing wealth, status, and material goods above all else.

For instance, a person might say, “Her materialism is evident in her obsession with designer brands.”
In a discussion about consumer culture, someone might argue, “Materialism has led to a throwaway society that values quantity over quality.”
A critic might describe a character in a film as, “A symbol of materialism, he measures his worth by the possessions he owns.”

10. Mammon

Mammon is a term used to personify wealth and greed. It is often associated with the pursuit of material gain and the worship of money as a deity.

For example, a person might say, “He is so obsessed with Mammon that he sacrifices his relationships for financial success.”
In a discussion about the dangers of consumerism, someone might comment, “Our society is driven by the worship of Mammon.”
A critic might describe a character in a novel as, “A representation of Mammon, he is consumed by his desire for riches.”

11. Hoarding

This refers to the act of accumulating and storing excessive amounts of something, often in a selfish or greedy manner. Hoarding can apply to physical objects, such as possessions or money, as well as intangible things like power or information.

For example, someone might say, “He’s been hoarding all the toilet paper during the pandemic.”
In a discussion about wealth inequality, one might argue, “The hoarding of resources by the wealthy exacerbates the problem.”
A person criticizing a politician might say, “She’s hoarding power and refusing to delegate any authority.”

12. Money-hungry

This term describes a person who is excessively eager or obsessed with acquiring money or wealth. It implies a strong desire for financial gain and often suggests a disregard for ethics or morality in the pursuit of money.

For instance, someone might say, “He’s so money-hungry, he’ll do anything for a dollar.”
In a discussion about corporate greed, one might argue, “The executives at that company are clearly money-hungry.”
A person criticizing a salesperson might say, “They’re just money-hungry and don’t care about the customer’s needs.”

13. Gluttony

This term refers to an excessive desire or craving for something, often associated with overindulgence or consumption. While typically used in the context of food, it can also be applied to other areas, such as money or power.

For example, someone might say, “His gluttony for power knows no bounds.”
In a discussion about materialism, one might argue, “Our society’s gluttony for possessions is unsustainable.”
A person criticizing a wasteful lifestyle might say, “Their gluttony for luxury is contributing to environmental degradation.”

14. Stinginess

This term describes a person who is unwilling to spend or give money, often characterized by a reluctance to share or be generous. Stinginess implies a selfishness or greediness in holding onto resources.

For instance, someone might say, “Don’t expect him to pick up the tab, he’s known for his stinginess.”
In a discussion about charitable giving, one might argue, “Stinginess limits the potential impact of philanthropy.”
A person criticizing a boss might say, “His stinginess with employee benefits is demoralizing the staff.”

15. Greed for power

This term describes an intense desire or ambition to attain and wield power or authority. It suggests a hunger for control and dominance, often at the expense of others. Greed for power can be seen in various contexts, such as politics, business, or personal relationships.

For example, someone might say, “His greed for power led him to manipulate and exploit others.”
In a discussion about authoritarian regimes, one might argue, “The leaders’ greed for power suppresses freedom and democracy.”
A person criticizing a CEO might say, “Their greed for power is evident in their ruthless management style.”

16. Mammon-worship

This term refers to the worship or idolization of wealth and material possessions. It describes the act of valuing money and material gain above all else.

For example, someone might criticize a billionaire for their mammon-worship, saying, “They are so focused on accumulating wealth that they neglect the needs of others.”
In a discussion about the negative effects of consumerism, one might argue, “Our society’s mammon-worship is leading to environmental degradation and social inequality.”
A person might reflect on their own values and say, “I used to be caught up in mammon-worship, but now I prioritize experiences and relationships over money.”

17. Avidity

Avidity refers to a strong or intense desire for something, often associated with greed. It implies a strong craving or eagerness to obtain or possess something.

For instance, a person might describe a successful entrepreneur as having an avidity for success, saying, “Their avidity for achieving their goals is what sets them apart.”
In a discussion about consumer culture, one might criticize the avidity for material possessions, saying, “Our society’s avidity for the latest gadgets is fueling unsustainable production and waste.”
A person might reflect on their own past avidity and say, “I used to chase after money with avidity, but now I prioritize a balanced and fulfilling life.”

18. Filthy lucre

Filthy lucre is a derogatory term used to describe money or wealth that is obtained through dishonest or immoral means. It suggests that the money is tainted or dirty.

For example, someone might criticize a corrupt politician for their accumulation of filthy lucre, saying, “They have amassed a fortune through bribery and corruption.”
In a discussion about the negative effects of greed, one might argue, “The pursuit of filthy lucre often leads to unethical behavior and harm to others.”
A person might reflect on their own values and say, “I would never trade my integrity for filthy lucre. Honesty and ethics are more important to me than money.”

19. Fortune-hunting

Fortune-hunting refers to the act of actively seeking wealth or material gain. It implies a relentless pursuit of financial success and can sometimes have negative connotations.

For instance, a person might describe someone who marries for money as a fortune-hunter, saying, “They are only interested in their partner’s wealth.”
In a discussion about career choices, one might argue, “I don’t want to spend my life fortune-hunting. I value fulfillment and passion over financial success.”
A person might reflect on their own past fortune-hunting and say, “I used to prioritize money above all else, but now I realize there are more important things in life.”

20. Usury

Usury refers to the practice of charging excessive or exorbitant interest rates on loans, often associated with greed and exploitation. It implies a predatory or unfair lending practice.

For example, a person might criticize a payday lender for their usury, saying, “They exploit vulnerable individuals with high interest rates.”
In a discussion about financial ethics, one might argue, “Usury goes against the principles of fairness and responsible lending.”
A person might reflect on their own values and say, “I believe in fair and transparent lending practices. Usury has no place in a just financial system.”

21. Money-mad

This term is used to describe someone who is extremely focused on acquiring wealth and is willing to do anything to achieve it.

For example, “He’s so money-mad that he would sell his own mother for a profit.”
In a discussion about materialism, one might say, “Our society is becoming increasingly money-mad.”
A person criticizing someone’s greed might comment, “His money-madness knows no bounds.”

22. Wealth-obsessed

This phrase is used to describe someone who is excessively interested in acquiring and hoarding wealth.

For instance, “She’s so wealth-obsessed that she spends all her time trying to make more money.”
In a conversation about the pursuit of riches, one might argue, “Our society has become too wealth-obsessed.”
A person discussing the negative effects of greed might say, “Being wealth-obsessed can lead to a shallow and unfulfilling life.”

23. Gold-digging

This term refers to someone who forms relationships, particularly romantic ones, with the primary intention of gaining material benefits or financial support.

For example, “He’s just a gold-digger looking for a wealthy partner.”
In a discussion about motives in relationships, one might say, “Not all people are gold-digging, some seek genuine connections.”
A person warning about the dangers of gold-diggers might comment, “Beware of those who are only interested in your money; they might be gold-digging.”

24. Selfishness

This word describes the quality of being concerned primarily with one’s own personal gain or benefit, often at the expense of others.

For instance, “His selfishness prevents him from helping others in need.”
In a conversation about empathy, one might argue, “Selfishness is the opposite of compassion.”
A person criticizing someone’s behavior might say, “His selfishness is ruining our friendship.”

25. Scrooge

This term is derived from the character Ebenezer Scrooge in Charles Dickens’ novel “A Christmas Carol,” and is used to describe someone who is extremely stingy and unwilling to spend money.

For example, “He’s such a Scrooge that he refuses to buy gifts for anyone.”
In a discussion about generosity, one might say, “Don’t be a Scrooge; share your wealth with those in need.”
A person teasing a friend about their frugality might comment, “You’re acting like Scrooge with your tight grip on that wallet.”

26. Rapine

This term refers to the act of seizing or taking something by force, often motivated by greed. It can also be used to describe someone who is excessively greedy.

For example, “The conquerors engaged in rapine, looting the city of its treasures.”
In a discussion about corruption, one might say, “The rapine of public funds by politicians is a major issue.”
A critic might describe a character in a novel as “a rapine individual,“a rapine individual, always scheming for personal gain.”

27. Gluttonous

This term describes someone who has an insatiable appetite or desire for something, often associated with overindulgence or greed. It can refer to a person’s behavior or their consumption of food or resources.

For instance, “He was gluttonous for power, always seeking more influence.”
In a discussion about overconsumption, one might say, “Our society’s gluttonous habits are contributing to environmental degradation.”
A food critic might describe a dish as “a gluttonous feast,“a gluttonous feast, overflowing with rich flavors and indulgent ingredients.”

28. Mammonist

This term refers to a person who worships or idolizes money or material wealth. It is often used to describe someone who prioritizes financial gain above all else.

For example, “He was a notorious mammonist, constantly chasing after money.”
In a discussion about materialism, one might say, “Our society is filled with mammonists, valuing possessions over personal relationships.”
A critic might argue, “The rise of mammonism is detrimental to our collective well-being, promoting greed and inequality.”

29. Greedy-guts

This term is a lighthearted or humorous way to describe someone who is always seeking more, whether it be food, money, or other resources. It conveys a sense of playfulness while acknowledging their excessive greed.

For instance, “Don’t be such a greedy-guts, leave some for the rest of us!”
In a discussion about indulgence, one might say, “I couldn’t resist the temptation and turned into a greedy-guts.”
A parent might playfully scold their child, saying, “No more cookies for you, you little greedy-guts!”

30. Gold-digger

This term is used to describe a person, often a woman, who enters into a relationship or marriage solely for the purpose of gaining wealth or material possessions from their partner. It implies a lack of genuine affection or emotional connection.

For example, “He realized she was just a gold-digger when she demanded expensive gifts.”
In a discussion about love and money, one might say, “Beware of gold-diggers who are only interested in your bank account.”
A friend might warn another, saying, “Don’t fall for her charms, she’s a notorious gold-digger.”