Chrematistic
/ˌkrɛməˈtɪstɪk/noun
Relating to the acquisition of wealth, especially money-making viewed as an end in itself.
Did you know?In Aristotle’s Politics, chrematistics is contrasted with household management: wealth becomes morally suspect when accumulation—not practical need—has no apparent limit.
Etymological Timeline
Classical Greek
Ancient Greek
χρῆμα (chrêma)
“A thing, matter, property, or possession; later especially money or wealth.”
Classical Greek
Ancient Greek
χρηματιστική (chrēmatistikē)
“The art or practice of acquiring wealth, derived from chrêma, “property” or “money.””
4th Century BCE
Ancient Greek
χρηματιστική
“Aristotle’s term for the practice of wealth acquisition, particularly accumulation pursued beyond practical household needs.”
19th Century
English
chrematistic
“An English scholarly borrowing referring to money-making or the pursuit of wealth.”
Modern English
English
chrematistic
“Relating to wealth acquisition, especially when treated as an end in itself.”
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