opulence

noun

op·​u·​lence ˈä-pyə-lən(t)s 

1

: wealth, affluence

the opulence of prerevolutionary monarchs

2

: abundance, profusion

an opulence of fruits

Synonyms

• assets
• capital
• fortune
• means
• riches
• substance
• wealth
• wherewithal
• worth

Examples of opulence in a Sentence

in some parts of the city nearly unimaginable opulence can be found side by side with nearly unthinkable poverty

Recent Examples on the Web

The palette highlights the opulence and luxury that is traditionally linked to the regal color. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 4 Dec. 2024

Visiting Champagne offers more than just a taste of opulence. —Tim Lai, Forbes, 30 Nov. 2024

Against a backdrop of reality TV that was focused on wealth and opulence, the lives of the SUR staff initially provided an element of escapism and even a level of relatability to the audience. —Louis Staples, Rolling Stone, 28 Nov. 2024

The Barker holiday season launched Nov. 16 with tours of the house and property, with the emphasis on the 38-room resplendent mansion covered with twinkling lights and grand Christmas trees throughout, every detail evoking the opulence and holiday spirit of a bygone era. —Philip Potempa, Chicago Tribune, 20 Nov. 2024

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Middle French & Latin; Middle French, borrowed from Latin opulentia, from opulentus "abounding in resources, opulent" + -ia -ia entry 1

First Known Use

circa 1518, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

opulence

noun

op·​u·​lence ˈäp-yə-lən(t)s 

: great wealth