adjective / verb
lavish
LAV-ish/ˈlævɪʃ/
Very generous or abundant, or giving in this way.
The hosts serve a lavish feast for their guests.
Etymology
Old French lavasse meant a torrent or deluge. That image of abundance became spending or giving profusely, linking lavish generosity and luxury with things supplied in overflowing amounts.
In context
Not only that, but it sported a ballroom, lounges, and even parlors. The lavish new building would be devoted to the burgeoning art of cinema.
More examples
- She is lavish with praise when her students improve.
- Grandparents often lavish attention on their grandchildren.
- They lavished care on every detail of the celebration.
Forms
lavish · lavishes · lavished · lavishing
lavishly adverb — In a very generous or abundant way.
lavishness noun — The quality of being exceptionally generous or abundant.
Similar words
- generous
- Emphasizes willingness to give, without necessarily suggesting extravagant amounts.
- extravagant
- More strongly suggests spending beyond what is reasonable or necessary.
- abundant
- Emphasizes large quantities without implying generosity or costly display.