sumptuous

adjective

sump·​tu·​ous ˈsəm(p)(t)-shə-wəs How to pronounce sumptuous (audio)
-shəs,
-shwəs
: extremely costly, rich, luxurious, or magnificent
sumptuous banquets
a sumptuous residence
sumptuously adverb
sumptuousness noun

Did you know?

The word sumptuous typically describes things that can only be had at some significant expense, a fact that keeps the modern English word tied to its Latin source: sumptus, meaning "expense." Another English adjective, sumptuary, has the same Latin source, but today is found mostly in the context of sumptuary laws, largely historical regulations limiting extravagant expenditures and habits, especially on moral or religious grounds.

Examples of sumptuous in a Sentence

the cruise ship claims to offer sumptuous furnishings, exquisitely prepared cuisine, and stellar entertainment
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The food is just as mind-blowing, with options from sumptuous sushi to rich ragu pasta. Rebekah Evans, The Week Uk, theweek, 18 Nov. 2024 First, its gorgeous Hong Kong setting is sumptuous to take in, though this pleasure has been made complicated by the political sensitivities surrounding the city in the years since the production was shot. Nicholas Quah, Vulture, 26 Oct. 2024 The sumptuous breakfast buffet stretches as far as the eye can see, and the nightly five-course dinner – with wine pairing – is a thing of rare culinary splendour. James Rampton, theweek, 6 Nov. 2024 The Maxi-Dress Look: Pair these sumptuous chocolate brown boots with a soft dress and jacket in the same shade. Christina Holevas, Vogue, 4 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for sumptuous 

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin sumptuosus, from sumptus

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sumptuous was in the 15th century

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Dictionary Entries Near sumptuous

Cite this Entry

“Sumptuous.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sumptuous. Accessed 30 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

sumptuous

adjective
sump·​tu·​ous ˈsəm(p)-ch(ə-w)əs How to pronounce sumptuous (audio)
: involving large expense : lavish, luxurious
a sumptuous feast
sumptuously adverb
sumptuousness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on sumptuous

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