Materialistic
/məˌtɪə.ri.əˈlɪs.tɪk/noun
Relating to the belief that material possessions and physical comfort are more important than spiritual values.
Did you know?The term 'materialism' emerged from 18th-century philosophy, where it was linked to a rejection of spiritual or idealistic views, shaping modern consumer culture.
Etymological Timeline
Late Latin
Latin
materialis
“of or pertaining to matter, physical substance.”
17th Century
English
materialism
“the doctrine that nothing exists except matter and its movements.”
19th Century
English
materialistic
“characterized by a preoccupation with material rather than spiritual or intellectual things.”
Modern English
English
materialistic
“pertaining to or characterized by materialism in philosophy or lifestyle.”