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 additional guest bedrooms, equally as sumptuous, are located on another wing of the house, which awards plenty of privacy for homeowners in the primary suite. Emma Reynolds, Forbes, 14 Jan. 2025 And telling these stories requires sumptuous costuming, attention to historical detail and, of course, an appropriately regal setting. Alex Apatoff, People.com, 13 Jan. 2025 It’s decked out like a Broadway dream — with sumptuous Art Deco sets by Scott Pask and gorgeous ‘30s costumes by Gregg Barnes — but there’s a very contemporary heart at its center. Chad Jones, The Mercury News, 11 Jan. 2025 But come 2025, there is one quiet luxury label that is choosing to come into the spotlight: Loro Piana, the Italian luxury fashion house known for its sumptuous wool sweaters and coats, which can cost upwards of $33,000. Christian Allaire, Vogue, 9 Jan. 2025 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 20 Jan. 2025.

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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