Synonym Chooser

How is the word opulent distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of opulent are affluent, rich, and wealthy. While all these words mean "having goods, property, and money in abundance," opulent suggests lavish expenditure and display of great wealth, more often applying to things than people.

an opulent mansion

Where would affluent be a reasonable alternative to opulent?

While the synonyms affluent and opulent are close in meaning, affluent suggests prosperity and an increasing wealth.

an affluent society

When can rich be used instead of opulent?

While in some cases nearly identical to opulent, rich implies having more than enough to gratify normal needs or desires.

became rich through shrewd investing

When is wealthy a more appropriate choice than opulent?

The words wealthy and opulent can be used in similar contexts, but wealthy stresses the possession of property and intrinsically valuable things.

wealthy landowners

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of opulent Following a multimillion-euro renovation by the Dorchester Collection, the 98 rooms and suites are filled with contemporary creature comforts while hewing to a classic style, with plush beds and opulent marble bathrooms. Erica Firpo, AFAR Media, 29 May 2025 Fahy is a lot of fun playing against recent type as a blue-collar woman who has zero interest in the glamorous, opulent world that so fascinates her sister. Alan Sepinwall, Rolling Stone, 22 May 2025 Fans of Emily and Stephanie’s wardrobe in 2018 can look forward to more bold, opulent statement pieces and elevated looks, according to the film’s costume designer Renee Ehrlich Kalfus. Jemal Polson, CNN Money, 8 May 2025 The gifted 747-8 plane from Qatar is certainly opulent, with big leather seats and wood inlay, multiple lounges, a bedroom suite and private office, according to marketing materials saved on the Internet Archive. Kat Lonsdorf, NPR, 23 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for opulent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for opulent
Adjective
  • In a report Tuesday, the group of 38 mostly wealthy nations sharply downgraded its 2025 economic growth forecast for America to 1.6% from the 2.2% projected in March and said growth would be even weaker next year.
    Anna Cooban, CNN Money, 3 June 2025
  • Big Little Lies Kidman has yet another incredible performance in a gripping drama about the dark undercurrents of a wealthy coastal community in California.
    Emily Blackwood, People.com, 3 June 2025
Adjective
  • Their genre-blending sound laid the foundation for future music icons, influencing everyone from Jimi Hendrix (who once played guitar for them) to The Notorious B.I.G. But just as impactful as their sound was their style: bold, luxurious, and unapologetically Black.
    Karissa Mitchell, Essence, 5 June 2025
  • These Egyptian cotton sheets are both durable and luxurious.
    BestReviews, Chicago Tribune, 4 June 2025
Adjective
  • Italy’s Taormina Film Festival is set for a standout 71st edition with a rich mix of genres – including some potential discoveries – on display, plus a generous dose of star power within a new format that attempts to revive the storied Sicilian event and put it back on the international map.
    Nick Vivarelli, Variety, 5 June 2025
  • He's torched his credibility with Tesla's most important customers (rich libs), but now risks becoming persona non grata among the MAGA faithful by going against the boss.
    Carlo Versano, MSNBC Newsweek, 5 June 2025
Adjective
  • Viewers of that first episode were treated to scenes of the family’s affluent lifestyle in a gated community outside of Atlanta.
    Lisa Respers France, CNN Money, 29 May 2025
  • Zermatt is one of Switzerland's most exclusive Alpine resorts, visited by affluent European skiers.
    Clare Fisher, People.com, 26 May 2025
Adjective
  • These showy shrubs are bursting with personality—from fabulous texture-rich foliage to luxuriant blooms.
    Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 25 May 2025
  • It is also known as Damask or Damascene rose and is revered for its luxuriant scent.
    Elise Taylor, Vogue, 24 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • Linkin Park’s comeback album From Zero is a major commercial success again in the United Kingdom this week, thanks to a huge uptick in interest, which was sparked by the release of a deluxe edition of the title.
    Hugh McIntyre, Forbes.com, 30 May 2025
  • However, despite her acting declaration, Grande still treated fans with a deluxe edition of her latest album, Eternal Sunshine.
    Daniel Kreps, Rolling Stone, 30 May 2025
Adjective
  • From cultish family dynamics to whodunits set in lavish locales, here are 12 shows fans of Sirens should add to their watch list.
    Emily Blackwood, People.com, 3 June 2025
  • Zaya recently turned 18 and had a lavish birthday ball to celebrate the milestone age.
    Elizabeth Ayoola, Essence, 3 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Opulent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/opulent. Accessed 10 Jun. 2025.

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