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noun C1 Advanced

extravagance

ihk-STRA-vuh-guhns

Extravagance (noun) means spending far more money than is necessary or reasonable. Example: “The wedding was a display of pure extravagance, with gold-plated invitations.”

noun
1
Spending far more money than is necessary or reasonable.
"The wedding was a display of pure extravagance, with gold-plated invitations."
2
A specific luxury or indulgence someone treats themselves to.
"A weekly massage is her one extravagance."

How to use extravagance

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishSpending or behaviour that goes way beyond what's reasonable or necessary, usually luxurious.

Common pairings
a display of extravagance an extravagance she allows herself

Word forms

extravagances plural

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The wedding was a display of pure _____, with gold-plated invitations.

Etymology

From French extravagance, from Medieval Latin extra ("beyond") + vagor ("to wander") — literally "wandering beyond bounds."

Origin: Medieval Latin

Related words

Rhymes for extravagance

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Frequently asked questions

What does “extravagance” mean?

The word “extravagance” means spending far more money than is necessary or reasonable. In plain terms, spending or behaviour that goes way beyond what's reasonable or necessary, usually luxurious.

How do you pronounce “extravagance”?

“Extravagance” is pronounced ihk-STRA-vuh-guhns (/ɪkˈstɹævəɡən(t)s/ in IPA).

How do you use “extravagance” in a sentence?

Here is “extravagance” used in a sentence: “The wedding was a display of pure extravagance, with gold-plated invitations.”

What is another word for “extravagance”?

Words with a similar meaning to “extravagance” include excess, irregularity, lavishness, prodigality, profusion and recklessness.

What is the opposite of “extravagance”?

The opposite of “extravagance” — its antonyms — are frugality, economize and moderation.

What part of speech is “extravagance”?

“Extravagance” is a noun.

Where does the word “extravagance” come from?

The word “extravagance” comes from Medieval Latin. From French extravagance, from Medieval Latin extra ("beyond") + vagor ("to wander") — literally "wandering beyond bounds.".

How many meanings does “extravagance” have?

“Extravagance” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: spending far more money than is necessary or reasonable.

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