Definition of opulentnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word opulent distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of opulent are affluent, rich, and wealthy. While all these words mean "having goods, property, and money in abundance," opulent suggests lavish expenditure and display of great wealth, more often applying to things than people.

an opulent mansion

Where would affluent be a reasonable alternative to opulent?

While the synonyms affluent and opulent are close in meaning, affluent suggests prosperity and an increasing wealth.

an affluent society

When can rich be used instead of opulent?

While in some cases nearly identical to opulent, rich implies having more than enough to gratify normal needs or desires.

became rich through shrewd investing

When is wealthy a more appropriate choice than opulent?

The words wealthy and opulent can be used in similar contexts, but wealthy stresses the possession of property and intrinsically valuable things.

wealthy landowners

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 opulent In the mid 1800s, opulent steamers like the Albany ferried passengers across the Great Lakes to burgeoning Midwest cities. Stacy Conde, Midwest Living, 10 Aug. 2026 The venue’s interior is dark and opulent, with details in black, gold, and emerald green illuminated by mirrors and crystal chandeliers. Amy Bradford, Architectural Digest, 5 Aug. 2026 The Oval Office now looks like a Middle Eastern bazaar crossed with an opulent Cracker Barrel. Matt Viser, The Atlantic, 2 Aug. 2026 Newport, Rhode Island Located on Aquidneck Island in Narragansett Bay, Newport is known for its opulent Gilded Age mansions reminiscent of European palaces, along with its equally stunning ocean views and beaches. Kathleen Wong, USA Today, 29 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for opulent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for opulent
Adjective
  • The pair also meet Sheriff Kerry Kane (Kelly Macdonald) and her wealthy, deeply suspicious father-in-law William Macon (Garret Dillahunt), who possesses an unusual amount of knowledge about aliens.
    Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2026
  • Beyond being a relatively wealthy, stable and democratic country with vast fishing grounds, Iceland could have joined the bloc relatively quickly.
    Kwiyeon Ha, Fortune, 30 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Guests indulge in luxurious bungalows offering private pools and direct beach access, alongside exquisite dining at Ora and Sumosan.
    Stephanie Orma, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2026
  • The ultra-luxurious, four-seat coach-door Neolun is targeted to push towards $250,000, squarely in the territory of Bentley and Maybach.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 30 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • So these ingredients can significantly boost fiber intake without adding traditional fiber-rich foods.
    Amber Raiken, Verywell Health, 26 Aug. 2026
  • Norman is the 26th richest member of Congress, including both the House of Representatives and the Senate, according to Quiver Quantitative Live Net Worth Tracker's list.
    Jay Stahl, USA Today, 26 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Olivia Miles, the rookie point guard for the Minnesota Lynx, wears a pair of bug-eyed sports goggles, black and bulbous, sometimes held in place by a thick strap that runs through her luxuriant Afro.
    Louisa Thomas, New Yorker, 30 Aug. 2026
  • At the end of the fifth group, one girl’s face blossomed into a radiant flower, and another drew herself with luxuriant pigtails, standing beneath a bright red beating heart.
    James Gordon, Time, 14 July 2026
Adjective
  • This modernist gem, tucked away just across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco in the affluent Upper Lucas Valley enclave of San Rafael, carries a dual legacy.
    Wendy Bowman, Robb Report, 31 Aug. 2026
  • Viking caters primarily to affluent, older travelers and offers an extensive portfolio of river cruises, which sets it apart from more mass-market competitors.
    Alexa LoMonaco, CNBC, 31 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Plans for the ultra-luxury Nobu condo building, where unit prices range from about $3 million to $60 million, include a Nobu restaurant and a wellness suite dedicated to biohacking and longevity.
    Catherine Odom, Miami Herald, 22 Aug. 2026
  • The family is presenting it as a private retreat or, with the right approvals, a possible ultra-luxury hospitality property.
    Jim Dobson, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Other benefits in that tier include a complimentary minibar setup, complimentary afternoon tea served in the stateroom, and a deluxe canapé selection on formal nights.
    Scott Laird, Travel + Leisure, 26 Aug. 2026
  • For families Studios, suites, and deluxe level kings are all spacious enough for families—but for the latter of those options be sure to book early, as there are only 16 up for grabs.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • As a chef at a fine dining restaurant inside a lavish Southern resort, Renee Boughman was surrounded by luxury.
    Karla Walsh, Southern Living, 30 Aug. 2026
  • Jenner, known for splashing out on lavish events, turned to colorful rhinestone decor to celebrate the milestone, and even plastered gemstones across plastic cups and one of her two birthday cakes.
    Sarah Glodek, Fortune, 28 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Opulent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/opulent. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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