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 Interest groups play an outsize role in national elections, politicians spend their time on calls with wealthy donors instead of meeting constituents and parties increasingly focus on themselves rather than average Americans. Susan Ostermann, Mercury News, 1 Aug. 2026 Hagans said Haitians returning to their home country from America are viewed as wealthy and vulnerable, and are often targeted by thieves and bandits. Emma Seiwell, New York Daily News, 1 Aug. 2026 Ultra-wealthy Americans fill Roth IRAs with shares in tiny startups, then watch their accounts multiply in value as the companies take off. Daniel De Visé, USA Today, 1 Aug. 2026 The sale comes as South Florida continues to develop a reputation as a magnet for the ultra-wealthy. Catherine Odom, Miami Herald, 1 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for wealthy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for wealthy
Adjective
  • Set the scene Hellerup is an affluent seaside suburb, a 10-minute cab ride or 30-minute train ride away from the city center, filled with posh homes with neat gardens.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 Aug. 2026
  • As the District 8 commissioner, Cohen Higgins, 44, represents a suburban area with some of Miami-Dade’s most affluent bedroom communities.
    Douglas Hanks, Miami Herald, 3 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • It’s lightly weighted for extra coziness and comes in rich fall-ready hues like terracotta and chestnut to make your bedroom feel moodier.
    Better Homes & Gardens, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 Aug. 2026
  • But as dreams of getting rich have grown, so have the dangers of losing it all.
    Stephanie Yang, CNN Money, 6 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Wealthy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/wealthy. Accessed 7 Aug. 2026.

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