Definition of richnext
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Synonym Chooser

How is the word rich distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of rich are affluent, opulent, and wealthy. While all these words mean "having goods, property, and money in abundance," rich implies having more than enough to gratify normal needs or desires.

became rich through shrewd investing

When would affluent be a good substitute for rich?

The words affluent and rich can be used in similar contexts, but affluent suggests prosperity and an increasing wealth.

an affluent society

When might opulent be a better fit than rich?

The words opulent and rich are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, opulent suggests lavish expenditure and display of great wealth, more often applying to things than people.

an opulent mansion

When can wealthy be used instead of rich?

The meanings of wealthy and rich largely overlap; however, 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 rich Pink and Gray Marble Add a pop of pale pink to the mix for a richer, more expensive look. Lauren Jones, The Spruce, 6 June 2026 Look for a pair with rich texture, like snakeskin, woven leather, or crocodile print, to dress up a pair of light-wash cargos. Ariel Wodarcyk, InStyle, 6 June 2026 This under-the-radar destination is rich in old-world charm, with rolling hills, independent shops, small vineyards, and country inns. Madeline Weinfield, Travel + Leisure, 6 June 2026 The good are getting richer off the ineptitude of the downtrodden. Nick Canepa, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for rich
Recent Examples of Synonyms for rich
Adjective
  • Darboven was a wealthy woman who never left home and used acquisition agents.
    Erika Landström, Artforum, 2 June 2026
  • With higher prices and a looming billionaire wealth tax, the Golden State continues to see both working-class residents and wealthy business owners leaving for more affordable cities.
    Lindsay Kornick, FOXNews.com, 2 June 2026
Adjective
  • Eat More Fish and Lean Poultry Instead of fattier meat dishes, try to incorporate more fish and lean poultry into your diet.
    Vanessa Caceres, Verywell Health, 4 May 2026
  • Only have fattier or leaner meat?
    Josh Miller, Southern Living, 17 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The modest growth was partly driven by robust investment in data center machinery and equipment, the statistics bureau said.
    Anniek Bao, CNBC, 3 June 2026
  • Before the Seventies, New York’s social safety net was relatively robust.
    Kevin Lozano, Harpers Magazine, 2 June 2026
Adjective
  • Scientists then release enough sterile flies to overwhelm the local fertile fly population.
    Jen Christensen, CNN Money, 4 June 2026
  • The mass release of dud studs elbows out fertile males, preventing them from mating with females, which generally only mate once.
    ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 3 June 2026
Adjective
  • The killing last year stunned an affluent Dallas suburb where the teenagers attended school and quickly drew wider attention, in part over social media posts that amplified the case in racial terms.
    ABC News, ABC News, 4 June 2026
  • Goodrich and prosecutors say the most common profile is a middle-aged, affluent White man who is married with children.
    Olivia Young, CBS News, 4 June 2026
Adjective
  • Follow this step-by-step method to keep your smoker free from greasy buildup that can cause a potential fire hazard, affect the taste of your food, and attract unwanted pests.
    Maria Sabella, The Spruce, 4 June 2026
  • Yes, these methods will work for any greasy type of stain.
    Daley Quinn, Southern Living, 4 June 2026
Adjective
  • Lupino makes the most of a low budget, crafting a genuinely suspenseful thriller with potent emotional resonance.
    Kevin Jacobsen, Entertainment Weekly, 6 June 2026
  • Lebanon’s fractured system of government makes those fears of civil war or sectarian strife more potent.
    Mick Krever, CNN Money, 6 June 2026
Adjective
  • Nico Paz, attacking midfielder, Argentina The 2022 World Cup champions already have an abundance of attacking talent headlined by the legendary Lionel Messi and prolific strikers Julian Alvarez and Lautaro Martinez.
    Christian Marshall, Kansas City Star, 4 June 2026
  • Oprah Winfrey and Tom Hanks will narrate portions of the audio tour for the presidential library, and prolific voice actor Cree Summer will narrate a family-centric guide.
    Rick Porter, HollywoodReporter, 4 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Rich.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rich. Accessed 9 Jun. 2026.

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