extravagance

noun

ex·​trav·​a·​gance ik-ˈstra-vi-gən(t)s 

1

a

: an instance of excess or prodigality

specifically : an excessive outlay of money

b

: something extravagant

a new car is an extravagance we can't afford

2

: the quality or fact of being extravagant

the extravagance of the decorations

Synonyms

• extravagancy
• lavishness
• prodigality
• profusion
• wastefulness

Examples of extravagance in a Sentence

The reorganization of the department was aimed at reducing extravagance.

That coat is an extravagance that you can't afford.

Going to the play will be our one extravagance for this vacation.

I was shocked by the extravagance of their lifestyle.

The church is known for the extravagance of its architecture.

Recent Examples on the Web

Aurelius is depicted as a ruler who preferred philosophical contemplation over the extravagances of imperial life. —Jake Parks, Discover Magazine, 20 June 2024

The Ascent does everything right and without extravagance. —James Raia, The Mercury News, 9 June 2024

Taurus April 20 – May 20 Your extravagances may come second to other people’s needs. —Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 8 June 2024

Dior’s clothes cinch but do not bind the waist and were considered rebellious not only for fitting so close to the body but for their postwar extravagance. —Carrie Wittmer, Vulture, 14 Feb. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1640, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

extravagance

noun

ex·​trav·​a·​gance ik-ˈstrav-i-gən(t)s 

1

a

: the wasteful or careless spending of money

b

: something that is extravagant

2

: the quality or fact of being extravagant