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

• extravagancy
• lavishness
• prodigality
• profusion
• wastefulness

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

For all its over-the-top extravagance, the production was nevertheless a master class in cinematic efficiency, with Scott running upward of 11 cameras per scene. —Ryan Gajewski, The Hollywood Reporter, 21 Nov. 2024

Marie Antoinette, the country's new queen consort, declined to buy the necklace despite her reputation for extravagance. —Hannah Peart, NBC News, 14 Nov. 2024

Traditionally, that would mean Champagne, the world’s sparkling wine par excellence, synonymous with celebration, luxury, extravagance, etc. Champagne, both the wine and the region, has had few rivals in style and grandeur for generations. —Patrick Comiskey, Los Angeles Times, 26 Dec. 2024

Try to keep gatherings intimate and centered on connection rather than extravagance. —Valerie Mesa, People.com, 24 Dec. 2024

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