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 film is an ensemble piece, following two married couples — one working class, the other wealthy — who cross paths during the production of a documentary. — Joe Reid, Vulture, 25 Sep. 2026 While The Rotunda is a place reserved for executives whose titles grant them the privilege of entry, the seating arrangement is more reminiscent of a high school lunchroom, except that everyone is much wealthier and more powerful. — Bob Chapek, HollywoodReporter, 24 Sep. 2026 However, investment firms of the ultra-wealthy are still prioritizing growth with plans to increase allocations to public equities, private equity and direct investments over the next 12 months, per the findings. — Hayley Cuccinello, CNBC, 24 Sep. 2026 Semafor said Musk is one of a number of wealthy individuals that Paramount, led by CEO David Ellison, has considered approaching to join a syndicate of equity investors into the company. — Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 23 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for wealthy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for wealthy
Adjective
  • Even here in the Dovners’ affluent apartment, there was no pretending.
    — Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn, New Yorker, 27 Sep. 2026
  • Rob Edwards helps affluent families preserve and grow their wealth while turning their Florida move into a strategic wealth advantage.
    — Rob Edwards, Forbes.com, 25 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Expect light wood accents, rich textiles, white plantation shutters, and framed artwork alongside in-room lending libraries.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 Sep. 2026
  • Deep underground, groundwater comes into direct contact with iron-rich minerals such as olivine, triggering a chemical reaction called serpentinization.
    — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 29 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Wealthy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/wealthy. Accessed 3 Oct. 2026.

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