sumptuous
SUMP-choo-us
/ˈsʌmptʃuəs/
Extremely costly, rich, elegant, or magnificent.
Emphasizes richness, quality, and often high cost, particularly in appearance or sensory experience (e.g., a sumptuous meal, sumptuous fabrics). It suggests a grand and impressive display.
The story behind the word. The word 'sumptuous' comes from the Latin 'sumptuosus,' which meant 'costly' or 'expensive.' This, in turn, derived from 'sumptus,' meaning 'expense,' and ultimately from 'sumere,' meaning 'to take' or 'to take up' (and by extension, 'to buy' or 'to spend'). So, 'sumptuous' has always been about something that 'takes up' a lot of expense, resulting in something grand and magnificent.
Word relationships
- lavish: Sumptuously rich, elaborate, or luxurious; given in generous quantities.
- opulent: Ostentatiously rich and luxurious or lavish, often referring to wealth itself or its display.
- magnificent: Impressively beautiful, elaborate, or extravagant; very grand.
- austere: Severe or strict in manner, attitude, or appearance; having no comforts or luxuries.
- simple: Easily understood or done; presenting no difficulty.
- plain: Not decorated or elaborate; simple or ordinary in character.
Commonly confused with
- expensive: 'Expensive' simply means costing a lot; 'sumptuous' adds the connotation of richness, elegance, and magnificence due to that cost.
Word family
- sumptuously (adverb): In a sumptuous manner.
Collocations
- sumptuous meal
- sumptuous feast
- sumptuous fabrics
- sumptuous surroundings
Example sentences
- "The wedding feast was a sumptuous spread of roasted meats, exotic fruits, and fine wines." Describing a luxurious meal.
- "The hotel suite was decorated with sumptuous velvet curtains and antique furniture." Describing interior design.
Memory hook
A 'SUMPTUOUS' meal will 'SUM UP' all your money. Sum up money
When not to use
Do not use 'sumptuous' for something cheap, simple, or ordinary. It specifically describes something of high quality, expense, and grandeur.
Fun facts
- The Latin root 'sumere' also gives us words like 'consume' (to use up) and 'assume' (to take upon oneself).
Explore more words
delectable, resplendent, munificent, exquisite, delicacy, elegant
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