–noun 1. a modern movement for the protection of the consumer against useless, inferior, or dangerous products, misleading advertising, unfair pricing, etc.
2. the concept that an ever-expanding consumption of goods is advantageous to the economy.
3. the fact or practice of an increasing consumption of goods: a critic of American consumerism.
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n.
The movement seeking to protect and inform consumers by requiring such practices as honest packaging and advertising, product guarantees, and improved safety standards.
The theory that a progressively greater consumption of goods is economically beneficial.
Attachment to materialistic values or possessions: deplored the rampant consumerism of contemporary society.
con·sumer·ist n.
con·sumer·istic adj.
n 1: the theory that an increasing consumption of goods is economically beneficial 2: a movement advocating greater protection of the interests of consumers
WordNet ® 2.0, © 2003 Princeton University