Synonym Chooser

How is the word opulent distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of opulent are affluent, rich, and wealthy. While all these words mean "having goods, property, and money in abundance," opulent suggests lavish expenditure and display of great wealth, more often applying to things than people.

an opulent mansion

Where would affluent be a reasonable alternative to opulent?

While the synonyms affluent and opulent are close in meaning, affluent suggests prosperity and an increasing wealth.

an affluent society

When can rich be used instead of opulent?

While in some cases nearly identical to opulent, rich implies having more than enough to gratify normal needs or desires.

became rich through shrewd investing

When is wealthy a more appropriate choice than opulent?

The words wealthy and opulent can be used in similar contexts, but wealthy stresses the possession of property and intrinsically valuable things.

wealthy landowners

Examples of opulent in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web This spacious and intimate space offers a perfect mix of opulent cabana amenities and privacy, ideal for celebrating special moments or simply embracing the island's leisurely rhythm in your own personal paradise. Sandra MacGregor, Forbes, 14 Oct. 2024 Less opulent was the plate of plastic sushi Ono served him as a gag-gift, but another present appealed to Lennon’s sentimental side. Jordan Runtagh, People.com, 12 Oct. 2024 At Saint Laurent, the vibe was opulent, but statement cuffs worn stacked or over sleeves and supersized necklaces in wooden beads, gave it a zen and human touch, as did earrings made with imperfect baroque pearls at Fendi and Schiaparelli. José Criales-Unzueta, Vogue, 11 Oct. 2024 When Burdick arrived in Jeddah, the princesses were confined in a single, opulent villa. Heidi Blake, The New Yorker, 10 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for opulent 

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

Thesaurus Entries Near opulent

Cite this Entry

“Opulent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/opulent. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on opulent

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!