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

• 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

Sophomore Marissa demanded a little less extravagance, funk and flair for her second-year room, which is in a slightly less flexible space. —Zoey Lyttle, People.com, 1 Sep. 2025

Colombia is a destination where luxury reveals itself not through extravagance, but through authenticity, intimacy, and connection. —Boris Seckovic, Travel + Leisure, 31 Aug. 2025

Even in economic uncertainty, people appreciate little extravagances; something extra that shows businesses still value them. —Dan Gingiss, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2025

Fueled by social media and the growing extravagance of weddings, brides with disposable income are hosting more events than ever — and buying more outfits as a result, experts and brides tell CNBC Make It. —Natalie Wu megan Sauer, CNBC, 30 Aug. 2025

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