Extravagant: meaning, definitions and examples

💸
Add to dictionary

extravagant

 

[ ɪkˈstræv.ə.ɡənt ]

Adjective / Noun
Context #1 | Adjective

used to describe something excessive or over-the-top

Extravagant is used to describe something that is excessive, elaborate, or luxurious. It often implies wastefulness or unnecessary opulence.

Synonyms

excessive, lavish, opulent, over-the-top.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
extravagant

Suitable for describing actions or objects that are overly costly or wasteful, often with a focus on unnecessary luxury.

  • His extravagant spending on designer clothes was hard to justify given his salary
  • The extravagant decorations at the wedding were stunning but impractical
excessive

Used when something goes beyond reasonable limits in quantity or degree, with a neutral or negative connotation.

  • The excessive noise from the construction site was unbearable
  • Her excessive use of perfume made it difficult to stay in the same room
lavish

Describes rich and luxurious qualities, often involving generous and splendid contributions, with a positive or neutral tone.

  • They threw a lavish party to celebrate their anniversary
  • The hotel provided a lavish breakfast spread for its guests
opulent

Used to describe extreme wealth and grandeur, typically associated with luxurious surroundings and materials.

  • The opulent mansion was filled with crystal chandeliers and marble floors
  • She enjoyed an opulent lifestyle, complete with private jets and yachts
over-the-top

Informally describes actions or behaviors that are too extreme or exaggerated, often with a somewhat negative or humorous tone.

  • Her reaction to the surprise was over-the-top; she screamed and started crying
  • The decorations for the party were over-the-top, with balloons covering every inch of the room

Examples of usage

  • He lived an extravagant lifestyle, spending money on designer clothes and expensive cars.
  • The wedding was extravagant, with a large guest list, elaborate decorations, and a gourmet menu.
  • She was criticized for her extravagant spending habits, always buying the latest gadgets and designer handbags.
Context #2 | Noun

a person who is prone to excessive spending or luxury

Extravagant can also refer to a person who spends money in a wasteful or excessive manner, often on luxury items.

Synonyms

high roller, spender, wastrel.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
extravagant

This word is often used to describe someone who spends money in an excessive and often unnecessary way. It can have a slightly negative connotation, implying imprudence or lack of practicality.

  • He made an extravagant purchase by buying a luxury car he didn't need.
  • Her extravagant taste often gets her into financial trouble.
spender

Spender is a more neutral term used to describe someone who spends money. It doesn't inherently carry a positive or negative connotation and can be used in various contexts.

  • He's a big spender when it comes to technology.
wastrel

Wastrel has a distinctly negative connotation, referring to someone who wastes money or resources recklessly and irresponsibly.

  • He was considered a wastrel in the family because he squandered his inheritance.
high roller

A high roller is a person who gambles or spends large amounts of money, often in casinos. The term is frequently associated with someone who is wealthy or willing to take significant financial risks.

  • The casino offers exclusive suites and perks for high rollers.
  • He became known as a high roller in Vegas, always betting large sums.

Examples of usage

  • He was known as an extravagant, always showing off his wealth with expensive purchases.
  • The heiress was labeled as an extravagant, constantly buying designer clothes and jewelry.
  • Despite his reputation as an extravagant, he was generous with his friends and family.

Translations

Translations of the word "extravagant" in other languages:

🇵🇹 extravagante

🇮🇳 अत्यधिक खर्चीला

🇩🇪 extravagant

🇮🇩 berlebihan

🇺🇦 екстравагантний

🇵🇱 ekstrawagancki

🇯🇵 派手な

🇫🇷 extravagant

🇪🇸 extravagante

🇹🇷 müsrif

🇰🇷 사치스러운

🇸🇦 مُبَالِغ فيه

🇨🇿 extravaganční

🇸🇰 extravagantný

🇨🇳 奢华的

🇸🇮 ekstravaganten

🇮🇸 eyðslusamur

🇰🇿 ысырапшыл

🇬🇪 ექსტრავაგანტული

🇦🇿 bədxərc

🇲🇽 extravagante

Etymology

The word 'extravagant' originated from the Latin word 'extravagans', which means 'wandering beyond'. It was first used in the 14th century to describe things that were excessive or beyond the usual limits. Over time, it has evolved to connote luxury, opulence, and wastefulness.

See also: extravagance, extravagantly.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,335 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.