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Definition of "materialism" []

  • Philosophy The theory that physical matter is the only reality and that everything, including thought, feeling, mind, and will, can be explained in terms of matter and physical phenomena. (noun)
  • The theory or attitude that physical well-being and worldly possessions constitute the greatest good and highest value in life. (noun)
  • A great or excessive regard for worldly concerns. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Use "materialism" in a sentence
  • "According to Wikipedia materialism is a form of physicalism."
  • "#83 – I agree with our little Ian and you that our materialism is a great contributor to global warming, but I love it that Ian throws in the sin, immorality, Antichrist and Beast bits."
  • "In his ultimate view of life, he was a drastic pessimist, and what we call materialism receives from his hands the clinching fiat of a terrific imprimatur."