prodigality

noun

prod·​i·​gal·​i·​ty ˌprädəˈgalətē How to pronounce prodigality (audio)
-lətē
-i
plural -es
Synonyms of prodigalitynext
1
: extravagance or an extravagant act in expenditure especially of money : reckless spending of resources : wastefulness
his prodigality became a legend
2
: profuse liberality : lavish supply : excessive abundance
a sound understanding of the earth's prodigalityJ. R. Caceres
our truly wonderful prodigality of talentJ. A. Michener

Word History

Etymology

Middle English prodigalite, from Middle French prodigalité, from Late Latin prodigalitat-, prodigalitas, Latin prodigus prodigal + -alis -al + -itat-, -itas -ity

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Cite this Entry

“Prodigality.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prodigality. Accessed 28 Dec. 2025.

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