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Wealth Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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wealth

[wɛlθ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

financial

An abundance of valuable possessions or money.

Synonyms

fortune, prosperity, riches.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
wealth

Generally refers to a large amount of money, property, or valuable possessions. Often used in broader contexts including both material and non-material assets like health and happiness.

  • He acquired his wealth through hard work and smart investments
  • Good health is a form of wealth money can't buy
prosperity

Refers to a state of being successful, particularly in terms of economic conditions. It encompasses overall flourishing, including good fortune and financial success.

  • The region has experienced a decade of prosperity
  • Education and hard work can lead to long-term prosperity
riches

Emphasizes valuable possessions or large amounts of money, often in a more poetic or dramatic sense. It may carry a slightly negative connotation if associated with greed or excess.

  • He flaunted his riches with expensive cars and a huge mansion
  • Many adventurers dreamt of discovering hidden riches in the mountains
fortune

Typically implies a large amount of money or good luck. Often used when referencing the acquisition of money quickly or due to luck.

  • He made a fortune in the stock market
  • Winning the lottery granted her a sudden fortune

Examples of usage

  • He is a man of great wealth.
  • She inherited a vast wealth from her family.
  • The country's wealth is concentrated in the hands of a few individuals.
Context #2 | Noun

resources

The state of having a plentiful supply of a particular resource.

Synonyms

abundance, plenty, profusion.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
wealth

Already described within the entry.
abundance

Used to describe a large quantity of something, not limited to money but also applicable to natural resources, opportunities, or general plenty. It has a positive connotation implying sufficiency or plenty.

  • There is an abundance of fruits in the summer.
  • The festival was celebrated with an abundance of joy and enthusiasm.
plenty

Often used to imply more than enough of something, but in a casual or conversational manner. It can describe food, resources, time, and other everyday essentials.

  • We have plenty of time to finish the project.
  • She brought plenty of cookies for everyone.
profusion

Used to describe a large, often excessive, amount of something. Generally used in a more formal or literary context, and can sometimes imply an overwhelming or disorderly abundance.

  • The garden was decorated with a profusion of flowers.
  • There was a profusion of ideas during the brainstorming session.

Examples of usage

  • The region is known for its wealth of natural resources.
  • The wealth of information available on the internet is staggering.
Context #3 | Noun

quality

A plentiful supply of a particular desirable thing.

Synonyms

abundance, profusion, variety.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
wealth

This word is often used to describe a large amount of money, resources, or valuable possessions owned by a person or organization. It can also refer to a plentiful supply of anything beneficial.

  • He inherited a vast wealth from his grandfather.
  • The country boasts a wealth of natural resources.
abundance

Typically used to indicate a very large quantity of something, especially more than what is needed. It often has a positive connotation, suggesting plenty and prosperity.

  • The garden was filled with an abundance of flowers.
  • They had an abundance of food at the party.
variety

Used to highlight a selection of different things or types, suggesting a range of choices or an assortment. It emphasizes diversity rather than quantity.

  • The store offers a variety of fresh fruits.
  • She enjoys a variety of hobbies.
profusion

Used in formal settings to describe a great quantity of something, usually referring to something that spreads or grows in large amounts. It emphasizes the overwhelming and often uncontrolled quantity.

  • The field was in full bloom, a profusion of colors.
  • There was a profusion of paperwork on his desk.

Examples of usage

  • The hotel offers a wealth of amenities for its guests.
  • There is a wealth of talent in the music industry.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Economics

  • In economics, wealth is a key measure of a country's resources and overall economic health.
  • The concept distinguishes between physical assets like property and financial assets like stocks.
  • Wealth inequality refers to the uneven distribution of assets among residents of a country.

Culture

  • In many cultures, displays of wealth (like luxury items) can influence social status and relationships.
  • Various art pieces throughout history, from paintings to sculptures, often depict the wealthy and their opulent lifestyles.

Psychology

  • Research shows that the perception of wealth can affect happiness, but after a certain point, additional money has diminishing returns in terms of life satisfaction.
  • People's attitudes towards wealth can often reflect their values, beliefs, and upbringing.

Philosophy

  • Discussions in philosophy often question whether wealth leads to true happiness or a fulfilling life.
  • Many thinkers argue that the pursuit of wealth for its own sake can result in moral dilemmas and societal issues.

Origin of 'wealth'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'wela', meaning well-being or prosperity.
  • Historically, it often referred not just to money but to welfare and health of individuals in a community.

The word 'wealth' originated from the Middle English 'wele', meaning well-being or welfare. It has evolved over time to encompass the concept of abundance and prosperity, particularly in terms of valuable possessions and resources. The notion of wealth has played a significant role in shaping economies, societies, and individual aspirations throughout history.

See also: wealthier, wealthy.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,127, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.