riches

plural noun

rich·​es ˈri-chəz How to pronounce riches (audio)
: things that make one rich : wealth

Examples of riches in a Sentence

industrialists who had amassed riches of a magnitude that few had dreamed possible
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This timeless rags-to-riches romance movie captures hearts with its humor, passion and unforgettable fun. Caitlin White, Variety, 2 Sep. 2025 While the world knows much of Dolly’s rags-to-riches story, the musical delves into parts of Dolly’s life she’s kept private until now. Pam Windsor, Forbes.com, 8 Aug. 2025 The challenge is to pay homage to the authentic pizza experience, as the siren song of expansion riches tugs at both Pepe’s and Sally’s. Bill Field, Hartford Courant, 19 June 2025 Revealed by Deadline several months back, The Lady charts the rise and fall of former royal dresser Andrews, whose rags to riches fairytale fell apart when she was convicted of murder. Max Goldbart, Deadline, 19 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for riches

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, singular or plural, from richesse wealth, from Anglo-French richesce, from riche rich, of Germanic origin; akin to Old English rīce rich

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of riches was in the 13th century

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Cite this Entry

“Riches.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/riches. Accessed 11 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

riches

plural noun
rich·​es ˈrich-əz How to pronounce riches (audio)
: things that make one rich : wealth
Etymology

Middle English richesse, originally not a plural but a singular noun meaning "richness"

More from Merriam-Webster on riches

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