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Definition of mercenariness

mercenariness

/ˌmɜːsənərɪnəs/
mer · ce · nar · i · ness
Adverb:mercenarily
•
Adjective:mercenary
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mercenariness Lexical Profile

mercenariness Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The quality or state of being motivated primarily or exclusively by a desire for monetary gain or material reward, often at the expense of ethics or loyalty.

Example

"The historian criticized the politicians of the era for their blatant mercenariness and disregard for the public good."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for mercenariness
Antonyms
View all antonyms for mercenariness

• Nearby Words

mercantile
merced
mercedario
mercenariness
mercenary
merch
merchandise

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in English from the adjective 'mercenary' plus the noun suffix '-ness'. The root 'mercenary' derives from Latin 'mercenarius' (working for pay), from 'merces' (wages, reward, or pay).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Mercenariness. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/mercenariness
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