consumerism

[ kuh n-soo-muh-riz-uh m ]
/ kənˈsu məˌrɪz əm /

noun

a modern movement for the protection of the consumer against useless, inferior, or dangerous products, misleading advertising, unfair pricing, etc.
the concept that an ever-expanding consumption of goods is advantageous to the economy.
the fact or practice of an increasing consumption of goods: a critic of American consumerism.

Origin of consumerism

An Americanism dating back to 1940–45; consumer + -ism

OTHER WORDS FROM consumerism

an·ti·con·sum·er·ism, noun

Words nearby consumerism

consumer packaged goods, consumer price index, consumer product safety commission, consumer strike, consumer terrorism, consumerism, consumerist, consumerize, consuming, consummate, consummation

British Dictionary definitions for anti-consumerism

consumerism
/ (kənˈsjuːməˌrɪzəm) /

noun

protection of the interests of consumers
advocacy of a high rate of consumption and spending as a basis for a sound economy

Derived forms of consumerism

consumerist, noun, adjective

Cultural definitions for anti-consumerism

consumerism

A movement in the United States that seeks to protect consumers against shoddy or improperly labeled products. (See Ralph Nader.)