Meaning of the word materialism in English

What does materialism mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

materialism

US /məˈtɪr.i.ə.lɪ.zəm/
UK /məˈtɪə.ri.ə.lɪ.zəm/
"materialism" picture

Noun

1.

a tendency to consider material possessions and physical comfort as more important than spiritual values

Example:
His excessive materialism led him to prioritize wealth over relationships.
The documentary explored the rise of materialism in modern society.
2.

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

Example:
Philosophers have long debated the implications of materialism on human consciousness.
Ancient Greek thinkers laid some of the foundations for philosophical materialism.