Definition of wealthynext

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 Visiting teams, particularly from wealthy nations with the means to pay for it, will also request the most secluded rooms in the hotel, and away from the street side to minimize noise exposure. Adam Crafton, New York Times, 4 July 2026 These economies lose their cheap labor advantage, but don’t have the domestic innovation to create the high-value sectors to compete with wealthier nations. Angelica Ang, Fortune, 3 July 2026 For instance, space tourism has gotten off the ground; wealthy people can book trips to suborbital space, and the super-rich can fly all the way to Earth orbit, as the experience of NASA chief Jared Isaacman shows. Mike Wall, Space.com, 3 July 2026 Who wouldn’t want a glimpse into the world of uber-wealthy teens living very adult lives—sans parental supervision—in the heart of New York City? Lauren Brown West-Rosenthal, Parents, 3 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for wealthy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for wealthy
Adjective
  • Shares of American Express have jumped 8% over the past three months as its credit card business remained robust in spite of geopolitical uncertainties, largely due to its focus on affluent customers.
    Liz Napolitano, CNBC, 13 July 2026
  • Partly because affluent buyers can and are willing to spend more, over one in five homes sold above the asking price in June.
    Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 13 July 2026
Adjective
  • Researchers have found the diet, which is full of fiber-rich plants and lean proteins, can improve heart health and longevity.
    Anahad O’Connor, Washington Post, 16 July 2026
  • This is a spoiled, privileged, rich girl who should be on MTV’s My Super Sweet 16 instead of Bravo.
    Tom Smyth, Vulture, 16 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Wealthy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/wealthy. Accessed 17 Jul. 2026.

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