Synonym Chooser

How is the word wealthy distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of wealthy are affluent, opulent, and rich. While all these words mean "having goods, property, and money in abundance," wealthy stresses the possession of property and intrinsically valuable things.

wealthy landowners

Where would affluent be a reasonable alternative to wealthy?

In some situations, the words affluent and wealthy are roughly equivalent. However, affluent suggests prosperity and an increasing wealth.

an affluent society

When would opulent be a good substitute for wealthy?

The synonyms opulent and wealthy are sometimes interchangeable, but opulent suggests lavish expenditure and display of great wealth, more often applying to things than people.

an opulent mansion

When might rich be a better fit than wealthy?

The words rich and wealthy are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, rich implies having more than enough to gratify normal needs or desires.

became rich through shrewd investing

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 wealthy For years, researchers have asked why a wealthy family should have so much sway over how the world improves people’s health and responds to crises. Thalia Beaty, Los Angeles Times, 8 May 2025 Gates’ current net worth is $108 billion; Bloomberg’s Billionaires Index ranks him as the fifth wealthiest person in the world. Clare Duffy, CNN Money, 8 May 2025 In 1949, Youngstown ranked among the nation's wealthiest cities, its steel mills and factories like General Motors employed thousands. Faisal Kutty, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 May 2025 With regard to military aircraft and civilian transport, faster is generally better, and governments and wealthy individuals are prepared to pay for it. Ben Oliver, Robb Report, 27 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for wealthy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for wealthy
Adjective
  • These areas tend to have affluent shoppers who have the time for and interest in shopping that way.
    Alexandra Talty, New York Times, 17 May 2025
  • The hotel brand surveyed 503 affluent U.S. adults between late February and early March, defined as those with household income of at least $250,000; a minimum of $1 million in total assets, and those who typically spend $10,000 or more on leisure travel annually.
    Nathan Diller, USA Today, 14 May 2025
Adjective
  • The Russian dressing, a thick, chunky Thousand Island, is rich enough.
    Jenn Harris, Los Angeles Times, 12 May 2025
  • Avocados Avocados are rich in heart-healthy fats, and many other health-promoting nutrients.
    Lindsey DeSoto, Health, 12 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Wealthy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/wealthy. Accessed 22 May. 2025.

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