expensive

adjective

ex·​pen·​sive ik-ˈspen(t)-siv How to pronounce expensive (audio)
1
: involving high cost or sacrifice
an expensive hobby
2
a
: commanding a high price and especially one that is not based on intrinsic worth or is beyond a prospective buyer's means
b
: characterized by high prices
expensive shops
expensively adverb
expensiveness noun

Examples of expensive in a Sentence

The lights were expensive to install. expensive clothing that only the truly wealthy can afford
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.
Renovations to make a home wheelchair-accessible or safe for someone with a visual impairment can be expensive. Andrew Lingelbach, Baltimore Sun, 9 Mar. 2025 Castillo would be expensive, in terms of money and the trade package, but his presence on the mound would be well worth it. William Lambers, Newsweek, 9 Mar. 2025 But Shahram Mokhtari, a technician from repair company iFixit, said Humane's heavy use of glue makes recycling more expensive and environmentally hazardous. Adam Smith, USA TODAY, 8 Mar. 2025 While Musk is now significantly wealthier than in 2008, providing more resources for SpaceX, Starship is a far more expensive platform than Falcon 1. Scott Neuman, NPR, 8 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for expensive

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1610, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of expensive was circa 1610

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Expensive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/expensive. Accessed 12 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

expensive

adjective
ex·​pen·​sive ik-ˈspen(t)-siv How to pronounce expensive (audio)
1
: costly sense 2
an expensive hobby
2
a
: having a high price
expensive gifts
b
: marked by high prices
expensive shops
expensively adverb
expensiveness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on expensive

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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