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Wealthy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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wealthy

[ˈwɛlθi ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

describing someone

Having a lot of money, possessions, or resources.

Synonyms

affluent, rich, well-off.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
wealthy

Use this word when referencing someone with substantial financial resources. It's a neutral term but often implies a higher social status.

  • She came from a wealthy family that owned several businesses
rich

A common and broad term for someone with significant money. It is neutral but can sometimes carry different connotations depending on the tone.

  • He became rich after his tech startup was acquired by a major corporation
affluent

This word fits well in formal or academic settings. It's used to describe people, communities, or societies that have an abundance of wealth and resources.

  • The affluent suburbs are known for their luxury homes and high standard of living
well-off

Used to indicate someone who is comfortably provided for but not necessarily extremely wealthy. It often implies having enough resources to live without financial stress.

  • Although they are not wealthy, they are well-off and live a very comfortable life

Examples of usage

  • He comes from a wealthy family.
  • She married a wealthy businessman.
Context #2 | Adjective

describing something

Characterized by a plentiful supply of a particular desirable thing.

Synonyms

abundant, copious, plentiful.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
wealthy

Use when describing a person or entity that possesses a lot of money or material resources.

  • The wealthy businessman donated millions to charity.
  • She grew up in a wealthy family and never had to worry about finances.
abundant

Suitable for describing something that exists in great quantities, often referring to resources or supplies.

  • The rainforest is home to abundant wildlife.
  • During the harvest season, there's an abundant supply of fresh vegetables.
plentiful

Appropriate for describing something that is available in large amounts, often implying ease of access or availability.

  • Food was plentiful at the banquet.
  • Jobs in the tech industry are currently plentiful.
copious

Best used when describing a large amount of something, especially when it's more than needed or usual, often with a slightly formal or academic tone.

  • She took copious notes during the lecture.
  • The historian had copious documentation to support his thesis.

Examples of usage

  • A wealthy source of information.
  • A wealthy variety of plants.
Context #3 | Adjective

describing food

Rich in a particular nutrient or ingredient.

Synonyms

decadent, indulgent, luxurious.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
wealthy

Used to describe a person or entity that has a large amount of money, assets, and resources. This term can be used in both neutral and positive contexts.

  • She is a wealthy businesswoman who owns several companies.
  • The wealthy man donated a significant amount to the charity.
indulgent

Describes someone or something that allows oneself or others to enjoy luxury, pleasure, or generosity, sometimes to excess. Can be used in both negative and positive contexts.

  • He was an indulgent father, always giving his children whatever they wanted.
  • The weekend spa retreat was an indulgent escape from her busy life.
decadent

Refers to something characterized by or appealing to self-indulgence, luxury, or moral decay. Often has a negative connotation, implying excessive indulgence in pleasures.

  • The party was a decadent affair, with expensive food and drink overflowing.
  • Some people see modern art as decadent and lacking in substance.
luxurious

Pertains to something very comfortable, elegant, and of high quality, often expensive. Generally used in a positive light to describe objects, experiences, or lifestyles.

  • They stayed in a luxurious hotel during their vacation.
  • The car's interior was decorated with luxurious leather seats.

Examples of usage

  • A wealthy chocolate cake.
  • A wealthy cream sauce.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Culture

  • In many cultures, wealth is often associated with power and influence, leading to a societal hierarchy.
  • Film portrayals frequently depict wealthy characters as either benevolent figures or morally ambiguous villains, showing dual perspectives on wealth.
  • Luxury brands and lifestyle trends often signal wealth, sometimes creating a culture of aspiration and envy.

Economics

  • Wealthy individuals often have significant influence on economic policies and market trends.
  • Studies show that wealth distribution can impact societal stability, affecting everything from education to healthcare access.
  • Tax policies aimed at the wealthy can generate debates on fairness and societal contribution.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that while having wealth can reduce stress from everyday finances, it doesn't guarantee happiness.
  • Wealth can shape individual identity, where some people may define themselves by their possessions or income level.
  • The 'paradox of wealth' indicates that greater financial resources can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation or anxiety due to social pressures.

Literature

  • Classic novels often explore themes of wealth, highlighting contrasts between rich and poor, such as in 'Great Expectations' by Charles Dickens.
  • Wealth is frequently depicted as a corrupting force in literature, leading characters to moral dilemmas, as seen in F. Scott Fitzgerald's 'The Great Gatsby'.
  • Modern authors continue to dissect the impact of wealth on relationships and personal integrity, reflecting ongoing societal concerns.

Origin of 'wealthy'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Old English 'weal' which means 'well-being' or 'welfare'.
  • In Middle English, it was 'wealth', which referred to happiness or prosperity, not just money.
  • The evolution of the term reflects a shift from general well-being to financial status.

The word 'wealthy' originated from the Middle English word 'welthi', which meant 'abundantly supplied with resources or possessions'. It has been used in English since the 14th century. The concept of wealth has always been associated with prosperity and abundance.

See also: wealth, wealthier.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,455 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.