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 The group is chaired by tycoon Rithy Raksmei, also known as Xie Liguang, who is related by marriage to Cambodian Senator Kok An, one of the country’s wealthiest men who is wanted by Thai authorities in connection with fraud and money laundering. Charlie Campbell, Time, 7 Apr. 2026 There were thriving businesses, institutions and even a resort hotel known as the Duncan House, where wealthy Black travelers from cities like New York and Philadelphia came to stay. Reginald David, Hartford Courant, 7 Apr. 2026 Another theme percolating through the budget plan is the need to protect our wealthiest taxpayers from, well, taxes. Business Columnist, Los Angeles Times, 7 Apr. 2026 Gates, who is one of the world's wealthiest people, apologized in February to the staff of his philanthropic Gates Foundation for his ties to Epstein. Graham Kates, CBS News, 7 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for wealthy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for wealthy
Adjective
  • In this case, these ancient craftsmen figured out how to sparingly use Cinnabar, which spoke less to the affluent family’s budget, but rather a common practice to mix iron oxide and cinnabar that included a primer.
    Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 12 Apr. 2026
  • The 2026 Lincoln Nautilus buyer is typically an affluent, tech forward, and comfort focused individual, often in the 40 to 60 year old range, prioritizing a serene, quiet luxury driving experience, over high performance sporty dynamics.
    Tony Leopardo, Mercury News, 12 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • When the season ends, so, too, does their romance; the couple do not reunite until seven years later, when Laure is at loose ends and Erica is married to a rich man and planning to have children.
    The New Yorker, New Yorker, 13 Apr. 2026
  • Under a clear dark sky at Nestldown, representatives of the Los Gatos business community shone like unique stars in tailored suits and dresses of rich satin, tulle and lace.
    Nollyanne Delacruz, Mercury News, 12 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Wealthy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/wealthy. Accessed 14 Apr. 2026.

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