affluenza

American  

[af-loo-en-zuh] / ˌæf luˈɛn zə /

noun

1. the negative psychological or behavioral effects of having or pursuing wealth, as irresponsible acts and feelings of self-doubt or guilt.

2. excessive materialism or desire for wealth, associated with negative effects.

   workaholics afflicted with affluenza.

---

affluenza British  

/ ˌæflʊˈɛnzə /

noun

1. Also called: sudden-wealth syndrome. the guilt or lack of motivation experienced by people who have made or inherited large amounts of money

---

Etymology

Origin of affluenza

1970–75; blend of affluence ( def. ) and influenza ( def. )

---

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

affluenza

“Monsters” is, among other things, a wicked parody of affluenza.

From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 27, 2024

The biggest surprise of “Nine Perfect Strangers” is that Tranquillum’s guests are in genuine pain, that these aren’t a bunch of Richie Riches who gave themselves affluenza out of cosseted boredom.

From Washington Post ● Aug. 16, 2021

John de Graaf and his co-authors explain in Affluenza: The All-Consuming Epidemic, “It’s as if we Americans, despite our intentions, suffer from some kind of Willpower Deficiency Syndrome, a breakdown in affluenza immunity.”

From Slate ● May 5, 2016

The sentence sparked outrage from critics who ridiculed the affluenza defense and said his family's wealth helped the teen stay out of jail.

From Reuters ● Apr. 12, 2016

A psychologist who evaluated Couch in 2013 introduced the "affluenza" term at trial in reference to Couch being coddled by his wealthy parents.

From US News ● Jan. 29, 2016

Random Word

Spin the wheel and learn a new word!

---