opulence

noun

op·​u·​lence ˈä-pyə-lən(t)s How to pronounce opulence (audio)
1
: wealth, affluence
the opulence of prerevolutionary monarchs
2
: abundance, profusion
an opulence of fruits

Examples of opulence in a Sentence

in some parts of the city nearly unimaginable opulence can be found side by side with nearly unthinkable poverty
Recent Examples on the Web The yacht and the train couldn’t be more aesthetically opposite—one oozes Art Deco opulence; the other, modern elegance—but both have a distinctive design DNA. Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 15 May 2024 That led to some users calling out the contrast between the gala’s celebrity opulence and the situation in Gaza — using images from both – and condemning celebrities for not using their platforms to speak up for those who are suffering. Deepti Hajela, Fortune, 15 May 2024 From vibrant cityscapes to intimate portraits, Stout's pieces offer a compelling commentary on luxury, opulence, and modern society. Molly Peck, USA TODAY, 10 May 2024 Though the duo was known for their opulence, savvy travelers can get in on frugal savings by booking a two-night stay to receive a third night free — all in addition to daily continental breakfast overlooking Banderas Bay. Dan Koday, Travel + Leisure, 10 May 2024 His diamond accessories — a watch and Tiffany & Co. brooch — added a touch of opulence. Brittany Talarico, Peoplemag, 9 May 2024 While plenty of viewers delight in dissecting the fashion choices made by their favorite A-listers, others have bristled at the evening’s opulence. Callie Holtermann, New York Times, 7 May 2024 We are still obsessed with the Old World, which explains our fascination with the [British] royal family and this idea of opulence. Leo Barraclough, Variety, 7 Apr. 2024 Add a bit of opulence to your daily routine by grabbing one of Ettitude’s lush bath robes, fluffy comforters, or silky pillowcases at a major discount during our exclusive sale. Averi Baudler, Peoplemag, 5 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'opulence.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Middle French & Latin; Middle French, borrowed from Latin opulentia, from opulentus "abounding in resources, opulent" + -ia -ia entry 1

First Known Use

circa 1518, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of opulence was circa 1518

Dictionary Entries Near opulence

Cite this Entry

“Opulence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/opulence. Accessed 18 May. 2024.

Kids Definition

opulence

noun
op·​u·​lence ˈäp-yə-lən(t)s How to pronounce opulence (audio)
: great wealth

More from Merriam-Webster on opulence

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