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 June 30 attack shook the discreet and ultra-wealthy principality on the Mediterranean coast. Los Angeles Times, 18 July 2026 Though Nigeria, like much of Africa, has made major strides in increasing the number of years people spend in school, levels remain far below those of wealthier nations. Jeronimo Gonzalez, semafor.com, 17 July 2026 Still, going to these clinics is a whole status thing among the ultra-wealthy. Marisa Meltzer, Vanity Fair, 17 July 2026 People in wealthier places also required higher payments than those in poorer places, although the difference was not nearly as stark as the one based on density. Rogé Karma, The Atlantic, 17 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for wealthy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for wealthy
Adjective
  • But there is a world of difference between that and very affluent people who pay full freight at private universities.
    Dana Taylor, USA Today, 20 July 2026
  • The chain on Thursday opened its first location in Mexico, with a storefront in San Pedro Garza García, an affluent suburb of Monterrey.
    Emily Heil, Washington Post, 16 July 2026
Adjective
  • Watson joins a rich constellation of auteurs who have previously presided over the Sarajevo jury in past editions, including Mike Leigh, Jeremy Irons, Asghar Farhadi, Ruben Östlund, and Mia Wasikowska.
    Lily Ford, HollywoodReporter, 22 July 2026
  • Quinoa is also rich in fiber, as well as magnesium, iron, folate, and potassium, per Zinn.
    Kirsten Nunez, Martha Stewart, 22 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Wealthy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/wealthy. Accessed 24 Jul. 2026.

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