opulence

American  

[op-yuh-luhns] / ˈɒp jə ləns /

Sometimes opulency

noun

1. wealth, riches, or affluence.

2. abundance, as of resources or goods; plenty.

3. the state of being opulent.

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Other Word Forms

• unopulence
  noun

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Etymology

Origin of opulence

First recorded in 1500–10, opulence is from the Latin word opulentia wealth. See opulent, -ence

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Explanation

Something with opulence is drenched in wealth and luxury. You'll need gold brocaded curtains, diamond-encrusted watches, and a world-renowned personal chef if you want to add some opulence to your life. Not surprisingly, the noun opulence comes from the Latin opulentia, meaning “wealthy.” A word that suggests extravagant excess, opulence describes lavish and visibly over-the-top living. Synonyms include abundance, prosperity, and riches. Said the novelist Joseph Conrad, “Protection is the first necessity of opulence and luxury.” Meaning, first secure one’s riches and safety, and then enjoy without a care in the world!

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

opulence

It’s about overly noble characters, their stagy exchanges, the manicured squalor of the poor and, for the rich, an opulence that might have arrived courtesy of Wayfair.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 4, 2026

“The Devil Wears Prada 2” boasts even more luxury and sparkling opulence than its predecessor.

From Salon ● May 1, 2026

Roughly 90 percent of the UAE's population consists of foreigners and Dubai is its biggest city, with a carefully curated image for opulence and glamour.

From Barron's ● Feb. 28, 2026

Opera’s costume shop, summon the spectacular opulence of this music-obsessed Viennese world.

From Los Angeles Times ● Feb. 18, 2026

Day by day beneath the opulence of this city Wang Lung lived in the foundations of poverty upon which it was laid.

From "The Good Earth" by Pearl S. Buck

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