sumptuous

adjective

sump·​tu·​ous ˈsəm(p)(t)-shə-wəs 

-shəs, 

-shwəs

: extremely costly, rich, luxurious, or magnificent

sumptuous banquets

a sumptuous residence

also : magnificent sense 4

sumptuously adverb

sumptuousness noun

Did you know?

Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens may be a few of your favorite things, but are they sumptuous? Alas, though the best things in life are often free, sumptuous is a child of the Latin word sumptus, meaning “expense,” and it typically describes things that can only be had at some significant expense. A sumptuous lifestyle, for example, is more likely to involve silver-white bling than a silver-white winter that melts into spring. Sumptus has another English relation, this one tied even more closely to conspicuous consumption: sumptuary laws are largely historical regulations limiting extravagant expenditures and habits, especially on moral or religious grounds. (The sump in consumption is coincidental; that word comes from consume, which has its roots in Latin sumere meaning “to take up, take.”)

Synonyms of sumptuous

• luxurious
• deluxe
• luxuriant
• luxury
• lavish

Examples of sumptuous in a Sentence

the cruise ship claims to offer sumptuous furnishings, exquisitely prepared cuisine, and stellar entertainment

Recent Examples on the Web

Ransom Canyon is pure comfort TV, giving people beautiful actors, sumptuous landscapes, and heavy dashes of romance and drama. — Barry Levitt, Time, 23 July 2026

The decor is fittingly sumptuous—think Sicilian tiles, frescoes and bespoke wallpapers—and it’s protected from the hubbub of Valletta in a country town, 15 minutes’ drive away. — Laura Dannen Redman, Robb Report, 23 July 2026

Sold exclusively at Design Within Reach, this sumptuous design is supported by a hardwood frame and can be wrapped in three shades of velvet as well as white bouclé. — Kate McGregor, Architectural Digest, 23 July 2026

The hotel’s 48 suites—formerly cells—are narrow and stretched out, with warm wood layered atop historical brick walls, sumptuous fabrics wrapping plush seating, and deep soaking tubs. — Kathryn Romeyn, Travel + Leisure, 17 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin sumptuosus, from sumptus

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

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Kids Definition

sumptuous

adjective

sump·​tu·​ous ˈsəm(p)-ch(ə-w)əs 

: involving large expense : lavish, luxurious

a sumptuous feast

sumptuously adverb

sumptuousness noun