extravagance

noun

ex·​trav·​a·​gance ik-ˈstra-vi-gən(t)s 

1

a

: an instance of excess or prodigality

specifically : an excessive outlay of money

b

: something extravagant

A new car is an extravagance we can't afford.

2

: the quality or fact of being extravagant

the extravagance of the decorations

Synonyms of extravagance

• lavishness
• generosity
• wastefulness
• prodigality
• extravagancy
• profusion

Examples of extravagance in a Sentence

The reorganization of the department was aimed at reducing extravagance.

That coat is an extravagance that you can't afford.

Going to the play will be our one extravagance for this vacation.

I was shocked by the extravagance of their lifestyle.

The church is known for the extravagance of its architecture.

Recent Examples on the Web

In the wealthiest state in the wealthiest country in history, these are not extravagances. — Christopher Keating, Hartford Courant, 26 July 2026

From extravagance to romantic gestures, life can feel a little more theatrical this season. — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 22 July 2026

For me, the extraordinary life isn’t about mansions, yachts or extravagance. — Lisa Boone, Los Angeles Times, 22 July 2026

Harvey Nichols, by contrast, brings something Next cannot build overnight - a heritage in luxury and extravagance. — Kate Hardcastle, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1640, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

extravagance

noun

ex·​trav·​a·​gance ik-ˈstrav-i-gən(t)s 

1

a

: the wasteful or careless spending of money

b

: something that is extravagant

2

: the quality or fact of being extravagant