splurge

1 of 2

noun

ˈsplərj 

: an ostentatious effort, display, or expenditure

splurge

2 of 2

verb

splurged; splurging

intransitive verb

1

: to make a splurge

2

: to indulge oneself extravagantly

—often used with on

splurge on a new dress

transitive verb

: to spend extravagantly or ostentatiously

Examples of splurge in a Sentence

Verb

You should let yourself splurge once in a while.

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Best Men’s Clothing and Shoe Deals Cotopaxi hiking pants, supportive Asics, and more are hiding in Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale’s men’s section, giving shoppers the perfect opportunity to stock up on vacation and outdoor gear without the splurge. — Julia Morlino, Travel + Leisure, 18 July 2026

There are also markdowns on splurge-worthy gems like this best-selling slushie machine and ice cream maker, as well as this Wavytalk red light mask that checks all of the boxes for Charlize Theron’s anti-aging skincare routine. — Clara McMahon, PEOPLE, 18 July 2026

Verb

Travel may be getting more expensive, but that isn’t stopping Americans from splurging on bucket-list vacations. — Lauren Dana Ellman, Travel + Leisure, 15 July 2026

While smaller rug sizes can be much cheaper, splurging for the 8x10, 9x12, or the largest size appropriate for your space can save you in the long run. — Betsy Cribb Watson, Southern Living, 11 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Noun

perhaps blend of splash and surge

First Known Use

Noun

1828, in the meaning defined above

Verb

1844, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 1

Rhymes for splurge

• dirge
• merge
• purge
• scourge
• serge
• spurge
• sturge
• surge
• urge
• verge
• converge
• diverge

Kids Definition

splurge

1 of 2 noun

ˈsplərj 

: an instance of spending more than usual

splurge

2 of 2 verb

splurged; splurging

: indulge oneself or spend lavishly