Exorbitant Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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exorbitant
[ษชษกหzษหrbษชtษnt ]
Definitions
cost
Exceeding the bounds of custom, propriety, or reason, especially in amount or extent; highly excessive.
Synonyms
excessive, extreme, outrageous.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| exorbitant |
Use this when describing something, especially prices or demands, that are unreasonably high and go beyond what is considered acceptable.
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| excessive |
This word is used for something that goes beyond what is necessary, acceptable, or reasonable, not just in cost but in any amount or degree.
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| extreme |
This should describe something that is very severe, intense, or at the highest degree, often at the far ends of a range.
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| outrageous |
Use this when referring to something that is shockingly excessive, offensive, or goes beyond normal limits, often with a negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The price of the designer handbag was exorbitant.
- The exorbitant fees charged by the lawyer left the client in shock.
- The exorbitant cost of healthcare in the United States is a major concern.
behavior
Going far beyond what is right or proper; excessively forward.
Synonyms
immoderate, unreasonable, unwarranted.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| exorbitant |
Used when referring to prices or fees that are unreasonably high.
|
| immoderate |
Refers to behaviors, amounts, or actions that exceed the normal or acceptable limits and often implies lack of balance.
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| unreasonable |
Describes demands, expectations, or behaviors that are not fair or sensible.
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| unwarranted |
Used to describe actions or claims that lack justification or are not called for.
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Examples of usage
- His exorbitant demands made it difficult to work with him.
- The exorbitant behavior of the guest at the party was embarrassing to the host.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Economics
- Exorbitant prices often result from monopolies or a lack of competition in a market, enabling sellers to charge higher amounts.
- High demand and low supply can also lead to prices that consumers find exorbitant, such as during a natural disaster.
- The concept is vital in discussions about consumer rights and the ethical implications of pricing.
Pop Culture
- In movies, characters often joke about exorbitant prices, highlighting the absurdity of charging too much for everyday items.
- Popular songs sometimes include lyrics about extravagant spending, linking to the theme of exorbitant lifestyles.
- Platforms like social media often showcase influencer culture, where spending on luxury items can be described as exorbitant.
Psychology
- Studies show that people often perceive high prices as an indicator of quality, which can result in exorbitant spending.
- Cognitive bias can lead individuals to justify spending exorbitantly on desires rather than needs, impacting financial decisions.
- Emotional attachments and social pressures can contribute to the acceptance of exorbitant prices in certain contexts, like weddings or special events.
Literature
- Literary works sometimes explore themes of wealth disparity, using exorbitant expenses to highlight characters' challenges.
- In classic novels, characters facing exorbitant debts often reflect broader societal critiques of greed and materialism.
- Authors may use the term to characterize a setting where extravagance serves as a backdrop for conflict or moral dilemmas.
Origin of 'exorbitant'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'exorbitans', meaning to go beyond the orbit or standard limit.
- It entered the English language in the late 19th century, initially used in legal and financial contexts.
- The prefix 'ex-' implies 'out of,' while 'orbitant' relates to the idea of a specific boundary or realm.
The word 'exorbitant' originated from the late Latin word 'exorbitant-' (stem of 'exorbitans'), present participle of 'exorbitare' meaning 'to go out of the track'. The term was first recorded in the late 15th century. Over time, 'exorbitant' evolved to signify something exceeding proper limits, especially in terms of cost or behavior.