conspicuous consumption

noun

Definition of conspicuous consumptionnext
as in splurge

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Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of conspicuous consumption An online amalgam of conspicuous consumption, natural wonders, and manmade spectacles — like the world’s tallest tower, Abu Dhabi’s Grand Mosque, and even, yes, the vivid green of Dubai Chocolate — has propelled the emirates to superlative measures of tourism and consumer behavior. — Kelsey Warner, semafor.com, 13 Apr. 2026 This was not cultural architecture as economic engine, but architectural complexity as conspicuous consumption—a questionable evolution, if also an appropriate one for the most valuable luxury conglomerate in the world. — Julian Rose, Artforum, 26 Mar. 2026 Unlike conspicuous consumption, quiet luxury whispers rather than shouts, favoring rarity, meaning, and intentionality. — Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 15 Nov. 2025 Even before adolescence, the youth themselves are performing refinement—an early initiation into the aesthetics of conspicuous consumption. — Eva Roytburg, Fortune, 9 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for conspicuous consumption
Recent Examples of Synonyms for conspicuous consumption
  1. splurge
  2. wastefulness
  3. lavishness
  4. generosity
  5. extravagance
  6. profusion
Noun
  • Le Creuset Deals Le Creuset pieces can be a splurge, which makes finding them on sale even sweeter.
    — Toni Sutton, PEOPLE, 16 Aug. 2026
  • Karlie Kloss has yet to comment on her husband’s midlife crisis splurge.
    — Rebecca Alter, Vulture, 12 Aug. 2026
Definition of splurge
Noun
  • Your hard truth is less likely to change her mind than to start an argument about the wastefulness of taking two cars.
    — Judith Martin, Mercury News, 12 Aug. 2026
  • For all his wastefulness, those games have still brought 54 goals, a one-in-three ratio.
    — Chris Weatherspoon, New York Times, 21 July 2026
Definition of wastefulness
Noun
  • Bezos and Sánchez Bezos received backlash for the event’s lavishness during global hardships.
    — Lynsey Eidell, PEOPLE, 19 Aug. 2026
  • The Vanity Fair of today embodies a certain sort of lavishness—an often unironic appreciation of and yearning for rich people things.
    — Naomi Skwarna, hazlitt.net, 13 Aug. 2026
Definition of lavishness
Noun
  • The article cautions against outsourcing relationship building to AI, noting that authentic connections require time, vulnerability, and generosity, offering no immediate gratification.
    — William Arruda, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2026
  • Her strength, warmth, generosity, and unmistakable personality left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.
    — Harry Harris, Mercury News, 17 Aug. 2026
Definition of generosity
Noun
  • For rooms, the ADA Studio Coastline View room is 816 square feet of glorious view with a king-sized bed, spacious bathroom, and private patio for the ultimate in extravagance and ease.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 July 2026
  • Rather than overwhelming diners with extravagance, each course builds thoughtfully toward the next.
    — Claudia Alarcón, Forbes.com, 28 July 2026
Definition of extravagance
Noun
  • After all, the university’s magnetic pull depends on its being embedded in a global metropolis with its profusion of experts, employers, and opportunities.
    — Justin Davidson, Curbed, 19 Aug. 2026
  • In this deep perennial border, Jordin layered tough perennials that deliver a profusion of color in the height of summer, including catmint, ‘Millenium’ allium, ‘Cinderella’ milkweed, and clary sage.
    — Miranda Crowell, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 July 2026
Definition of profusion

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Cite this Entry

“Conspicuous consumption.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/conspicuous%20consumption. Accessed 25 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on conspicuous consumption

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about conspicuous consumption

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