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 After all, Kenneth Walker is now one of the five richest running backs in football. Sam McDowell, Kansas City Star, 3 May 2026 Culinary sage requires rich, well-draining soil or even sandy soil. Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 3 May 2026 East Garfield Park and Chicago are richer for it. Edward Keegan, Chicago Tribune, 3 May 2026 Poured terrazzo floors and rich hardwood run throughout, punctuated by polished concrete and expert millwork. Sara B. Hansen, Denver Post, 2 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for rich
Recent Examples of Synonyms for rich
Adjective
  • Voters may soon be able to decide whether to impose a one-time tax on the state's wealthiest residents, aimed at raising cash to cope with federal cuts and the state budget deficit.
    Steve Large, CBS News, 28 Apr. 2026
  • But isn’t this, at least in spirit, what many on the left criticize when wealthy taxpayers find ways to avoid paying more?
    The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 28 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Only have fattier or leaner meat?
    Josh Miller, Southern Living, 17 Apr. 2026
  • However, the difference is largely due to farming practices that produce fattier fish.
    MD Published, Verywell Health, 15 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Its robust lineup is often highlighted by these in-person events, which fete all manner of talents and their projects, both new and older.
    Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 28 Apr. 2026
  • The company claims that the latest announcement bolsters Australia’s industrial capacity, to design, build and sustain key defence assets, while ensuring a robust supply chain.
    Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 27 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Rosemary prefers moderately fertile, well-draining soil and light watering.
    Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 3 May 2026
  • From royal scandals, multiple wars, and the rise of fascism, the early 20th century is fertile ground for drama.
    Séraphine Roger, Vanity Fair, 3 May 2026
Adjective
  • Only the already-affluent still define it as an opportunity.
    Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 3 May 2026
  • Raised in Guatemala, my parents were pulled out of school at a young age to work for affluent families.
    Ohanna Carrascoza, CNBC, 1 May 2026
Adjective
  • Last fall, a friend told Hobbs that Peanuts Deluxe Cafe, a greasy-spoon hangout for San Jose State students on East San Fernando Street, was for sale and the SJSU alum decided to jump in and took over in October.
    Sal Pizarro, Mercury News, 7 May 2026
  • The lightweight product leaves skin soft and smooth (but not greasy), so makeup applies evenly and lasts all day.
    Isabel Garcia, PEOPLE, 4 May 2026
Adjective
  • Retirees and soon-to-be retirees have long been a potent voting bloc that instill fear in lawmakers, especially those contemplating any adjustments to Social Security and Medicare.
    Jason Ma, Fortune, 9 May 2026
  • This formula pairs potent L-ascorbic acid with more stable, gentler derivatives—3-O-ethyl ascorbic acid, ascorbyl glucoside, and ascorbyl tetraisopalmitate—which extend antioxidant benefits, boost tolerability, and improve overall stability.
    Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 9 May 2026
Adjective
  • But this estimate hinged on the fact that all those shipments had been handled by a small group of prolific importers — companies that quickly got ready to file their claims.
    Alina Selyukh, NPR, 3 May 2026
  • The German philosopher Jürgen Habermas, a prolific commentator on world events, didn’t live to comment on the Iran war.
    Adam Kirsch, The Atlantic, 3 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Rich.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/rich. Accessed 10 May. 2026.

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