conspicuous consumption

noun

Synonyms of conspicuous consumptionnext
: lavish or wasteful spending thought to enhance social prestige

Examples of conspicuous consumption in a Sentence

a culture of conspicuous consumption
Recent Examples on the Web
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This was not cultural architecture as economic engine, but architectural complexity as conspicuous consumption—a questionable evolution, if also an appropriate one for the most valuable luxury conglomerate in the world. Julian Rose, Artforum, 26 Mar. 2026 Unlike conspicuous consumption, quiet luxury whispers rather than shouts, favoring rarity, meaning, and intentionality. Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 15 Nov. 2025 Even before adolescence, the youth themselves are performing refinement—an early initiation into the aesthetics of conspicuous consumption. Eva Roytburg, Fortune, 9 Nov. 2025 Their conspicuous consumption catches Rob’s admiring attention, but the three sisters are not impressed. Sheri Linden, HollywoodReporter, 27 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for conspicuous consumption

Word History

First Known Use

1899, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of conspicuous consumption was in 1899

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Conspicuous consumption.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/conspicuous%20consumption. Accessed 1 Apr. 2026.

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