sumptuous
adjective
sump·tu·ous
ˈsəm(p)(t)-shə-wəs 
-shəs,
-shwəs
: extremely costly, rich, luxurious, or magnificent
sumptuous banquets
a sumptuous residence
also
: magnificent sense 4
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
The sensorial experience is soft and sumptuous, and the payoff impactful.
—
Catherine Santino, People.com, 17 Apr. 2025
The crunchy topping of fried chicken skin and fresh herbs delivers a sumptuous meal.
—Nora Colomer, FOXNews.com, 7 Apr. 2025
That led to the creation of coaches decked out with what were sumptuous features at the time: card tables, ceiling fans and sinks with hot and cold water.
—Lee-Ann Olwage, New York Times, 25 Mar. 2025
Where Hailey will opt for sumptuous faux furs and nipped in waists, Justin is most comfortable in big hoodies and bigger shorts.
—Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 22 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for sumptuous
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Catherine Santino, People.com, 17 Apr. 2025
The crunchy topping of fried chicken skin and fresh herbs delivers a sumptuous meal.
—Nora Colomer, FOXNews.com, 7 Apr. 2025
That led to the creation of coaches decked out with what were sumptuous features at the time: card tables, ceiling fans and sinks with hot and cold water.
—Lee-Ann Olwage, New York Times, 25 Mar. 2025
Where Hailey will opt for sumptuous faux furs and nipped in waists, Justin is most comfortable in big hoodies and bigger shorts.
—Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 22 Mar. 2025
See All Example Sentences for sumptuous
Cite this Entry
“Sumptuous.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sumptuous. Accessed 24 Apr. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
sumptuous
adjective
sump·tu·ous
ˈsəm(p)-ch(ə-w)əs
sumptuously
adverb
sumptuousness
noun
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