Opulence: Definition, Usage & Examples

Meaning 1：wealthy abundance (opulence)

opulence 🔊

/ˈɒp.jə.ləns/

When a place or thing looks extremely rich, grand, and full of expensive decorations.

Opulence illustrated by a lavish palace hall with crystal chandelier and velvet sofa.

wealthy abundance 🔊

➕

/ˈwelθi əˈbʌndəns/

A state of possessing and displaying great wealth, often characterized by luxurious and expensive surroundings or items.

📁 Category：Buildings & Places 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Latin 'opulentia' (wealth, abundance), derived from 'ops' (power, resource, wealth).

💡 Mnemonic

Think of 'Oprah' and 'palace' combined - Oprah's palace, symbolizing immense wealth and lavish living.

📖 Example

Stepping into the lobby of the historic palace, she was immediately struck by the opulence of the golden ceilings and giant crystal chandeliers. 🔊 Upon entering the lobby of the historic palace, the lavish wealth evident in the golden ceilings and enormous crystal chandeliers instantly amazed her.

🔗 Collocations

display of opulence – an act of showing off great wealth and luxury

sheer opulence – pure and unmixed luxuriousness

lives in opulence – resides in a state of great wealth and comfort

🔄 Synonyms

luxury (n.) – A state of great comfort and elegance, especially involving great expense.

affluence (n.) – The state of having a great deal of money; wealth.

richness (n.) – The quality of being plentiful or abundant, especially in valuable possessions.

🚫 Antonyms

poverty (n.) – The state of being extremely poor.

frugality (n.) – The quality of being economical with money or food; thriftiness.

simplicity (n.) – The quality or condition of being plain or uncomplicated.

🌱 Derivatives

opulent (adj.) – Rich and luxurious; characterized by great wealth.

opulently (adv.) – In a manner displaying great wealth or luxury.

📖 Cultural Story

Opulence derives from the Latin 'opulentia', meaning wealth or abundance. Historically, it described not just possessions but the power and resources of states or individuals, often used in contexts describing Roman prosperity or the lavish courts of monarchs.