Definition

A person who values material possessions and physical comfort more than spiritual or intellectual things.

Example

He is a materialist who believes that happiness comes from owning expensive things.

Conversation

Have you ever noticed how some people are such materialists?

Yeah, it's interesting how they focus on possessions instead of experiences.

Right? I think being a materialist can make you miss out on what really matters.

Exactly! It's much more fulfilling to cherish memories than things.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Materialist → It is formed from "material" (from Latin "materialis", meaning pertaining to matter) and "-ist" (meaning one who practices or is concerned with). The word "materialist" refers to someone who is concerned with material possessions or physical matter rather than spiritual or intellectual things.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is focused on 'matter' ('material') and practices or believes in it ('-ist'). This helps you remember that a materialist is someone who values physical things.

Visually Confused Words