opulence

noun

op·​u·​lence ˈä-pyə-lən(t)s How to pronounce opulence (audio)
1
: wealth, affluence
the opulence of prerevolutionary monarchs
2
: abundance, profusion
an opulence of fruits

Examples of opulence in a Sentence

in some parts of the city nearly unimaginable opulence can be found side by side with nearly unthinkable poverty
Recent Examples on the Web We are still obsessed with the Old World, which explains our fascination with the [British] royal family and this idea of opulence. Leo Barraclough, Variety, 7 Apr. 2024 Add a bit of opulence to your daily routine by grabbing one of Ettitude’s lush bath robes, fluffy comforters, or silky pillowcases at a major discount during our exclusive sale. Averi Baudler, Peoplemag, 5 Mar. 2024 So Bougie Who doesn’t want to add an air of opulence to their morning coffee? Kat Romero, Rolling Stone, 20 Feb. 2024 Be sure to book a room that includes exclusive access to The Langham Club, a kind of secret sanctuary within the hotel that showcases opulence and highly personalized service. Sandra MacGregor, Forbes, 15 Feb. 2024 Cher, Demi Moore, Lupita Nyong’o, Theo James, Helen Mirren, Isabella Rossellini, Lily James, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Anitta, just to name a few, walked a blue carpet among throngs of cheering fans before touring the exhibition, marveling at its spectacular opulence. Tiziana Cardini, Vogue, 7 Apr. 2024 At the same time, traditional design is back, with many looking to indulge in elegance and opulence. Cori Sears, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Mar. 2024 Until then, Vegas casinos typically sported rustic Wild West themes, but Siegel ushered in an era of unbridled opulence. Chris Carra, Smithsonian Magazine, 15 Feb. 2024 No, indulge in some opulence with this peel and stick wallpaper that will transform your home into a lavish space. Claire Rutter, Rolling Stone, 12 Feb. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'opulence.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Middle French & Latin; Middle French, borrowed from Latin opulentia, from opulentus "abounding in resources, opulent" + -ia -ia entry 1

First Known Use

circa 1518, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of opulence was circa 1518

Dictionary Entries Near opulence

Cite this Entry

“Opulence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/opulence. Accessed 24 Apr. 2024.

Kids Definition

opulence

noun
op·​u·​lence ˈäp-yə-lən(t)s How to pronounce opulence (audio)
: great wealth

More from Merriam-Webster on opulence

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!