lavish
LAV-ish
/ˈlævɪʃ/
Adjective: Sumptuously rich, elaborate, or luxurious. Verb: To bestow something in generous or extravagant quantities.
As an adjective, 'lavish' describes something that is abundant, luxurious, and often expensive. As a verb, it means to give generously, often to the point of excess, but usually with positive intent.
The story behind the word. Our word 'lavish' comes from the Old French word 'lavasse,' which meant 'deluge' or 'downpour.' Imagine a flood of water! This sense of 'profuse' or 'abundant' eventually evolved to describe something that is given or spent in great quantities, like a 'lavish' feast or 'lavish' praise. So, it's about an overflowing abundance, just like a heavy rain.
Word relationships
- sumptuous: Emphasizes richness and costliness, often in appearance.
- opulent: Suggests great wealth and luxuriousness, often referring to possessions or surroundings.
- extravagant: Implies exceeding what is reasonable or necessary, often with a hint of wastefulness.
- sparse: Thinly dispersed or scattered; meager.
- meager: Lacking in quantity or quality; scanty.
- frugal: Sparing or economical with regard to money or food.
Commonly confused with
- generous: 'Generous' refers to a willingness to give; 'lavish' describes the abundance or richness of what is given or the manner of giving.
Word family
- lavishly (adverb): In a rich, elaborate, or generous way.
Collocations
- lavish praise
- lavish lifestyle
- lavish attention
- lavish spending
Example sentences
- "The wedding reception was a lavish affair, with exquisite decorations and a gourmet five-course meal." Describing a grand celebration.
- "The proud grandparents would lavish gifts and affection on their only grandchild." Describing a generous act.
Memory hook
Think of a 'LAVISH' party where everyone 'LIVES' large. Live large
When not to use
Avoid using 'lavish' to describe something meager, inexpensive, or given sparingly. While it implies abundance, it doesn't necessarily imply wastefulness unless context suggests it.
Fun facts
- The original French root 'lavasse' is also related to the word 'lavatory' (a place for washing), highlighting the connection to water and abundance.
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