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 And for a quick (albeit temporary) fix, humectant- and emollient-rich moisturizers help to plump the skin, allowing for an overall smoother look. — Jenny Berg, Vogue, 28 Sep. 2026 Overall, these three fragrances are formulated to feel light and subtle rather than heavy and rich. — Katie Decker-Jacoby, StyleCaster, 28 Sep. 2026 Elon Musk’s net worth has increased by some $300 billion this year alone—more than the second-richest person, Larry Page, even has to his name. — Preston Fore, Fortune, 28 Sep. 2026 Page, who lives in Palo Alto, was the wealthiest person in California in 2026, according to the Forbes list of the 400 richest people in America. — Alexiah Syrai Olsen, Sacbee.com, 28 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for rich
Recent Examples of Synonyms for rich
Adjective
  • Some commenters questioned why a wealthy donor would bring a prominent university from Pittsburgh to Miami rather than direct more money toward institutions already serving local students.
    — Luisa Yanez October 2, Miami Herald, 2 Oct. 2026
  • At issue are certain use cases of Section 351 exchanges, in which wealthy individuals, through an intermediary, create new ETFs with a basket of highly appreciated stocks.
    — Cheryl Winokur Munk, CNBC, 2 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • Instead, opt for fattier cuts, like chicken thighs, pork shoulders, or beef chuck, that become tender and flavorful over time.
    — Anne Wolf, Martha Stewart, 6 Sep. 2026
  • If your goal is to get the most omega-3s, choose fattier fish like salmon.
    — Merve Ceylan, HEALTH, 21 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • And in all his years, Anderson said he’s never seen more companies support robust regulation.
    — Bob Herman, STAT, 5 Oct. 2026
  • Stubb is pressing European and NATO leaders to continue robust support for Ukraine.
    — John T. Shaw, Chicago Tribune, 4 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • For example, areas with large amounts of petrichor will likely see an increase in mosquitoes, because the smell indicates to these insects that the dry ground is now a moist fertile environment in which to lay their eggs.
    — Gregory Wakeman, Scientific American, 1 Oct. 2026
  • Every flight to and from the world’s busiest airport offers views of Georgia’s lush forests and fertile fields.
    — Zachary Hansen, AJC.com, 30 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • According to the Berkeley and Oakland police departments, responders arrived at the home Friday morning, soon after receiving reports of gunshots heard in the affluent neighborhood near the UC Berkeley campus.
    — Susanne Rust, Los Angeles Times, 4 Oct. 2026
  • The radiant setting is especially attractive to affluent couples from across Asia as well as the US, Australia, and Europe.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • The oil itself applies with a buttery glide, absorbs in five seconds, and doesn’t feel sticky or greasy.
    — Olivia Cigliano, InStyle, 27 Sep. 2026
  • The formula pairs urea with moisturizing and barrier-supporting ingredients in a rich cream that softens dry hands and cuticles without leaving behind a greasy finish.
    — Danielle James, Glamour, 25 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Introduced crawling through the Trask family’s field, her black blood spattering their rich soil like a human pesticide, Cathy personifies the series’ potent blend of dread and beauty.
    — Ben Travers, IndieWire, 1 Oct. 2026
  • But increasingly, Americans are turning to newer, more potent products made with a semi-synthetic kratom derivative, 7-hydroxymitragynine, or 7-OH.
    — Theresa Gaffney, STAT, 30 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Perhaps a one-two with prolific auteur Östlund is standard practice for one of Sweden’s most famous journalists, but an ensuing Oscar campaign?
    — Lily Ford, HollywoodReporter, 29 Sep. 2026
  • The prolific designer has put his touch on Barbie and Ken dolls.
    — Laure Guilbault, Vogue, 28 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Rich.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rich. Accessed 6 Oct. 2026.

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