extravagance

noun

ex·​trav·​a·​gance ik-ˈstra-vi-gən(t)s 

1

a

: an instance of excess or prodigality

specifically : an excessive outlay of money

b

: something extravagant

a new car is an extravagance we can't afford

2

: the quality or fact of being extravagant

the extravagance of the decorations

Synonyms

• extravagancy
• lavishness
• prodigality
• profusion
• wastefulness

Examples of extravagance in a Sentence

The reorganization of the department was aimed at reducing extravagance.

That coat is an extravagance that you can't afford.

Going to the play will be our one extravagance for this vacation.

I was shocked by the extravagance of their lifestyle.

The church is known for the extravagance of its architecture.

Recent Examples on the Web

Scrap the extravagance and train every institutional brain cell on defending a sound currency. —Steve Forbes, Forbes.com, 7 May 2025

Her ability to balance extravagance with authenticity has captivated global audiences and fueled her exponential growth, garnering over a million followers every 10 days. —Katcy Stephan, Variety, 30 Apr. 2025

Known for his populist approach and advocacy for the marginalized, Francis eschewed traditional papal extravagance and became a global symbol of humility and reform. —Josh Hammer, MSNBC Newsweek, 21 Apr. 2025

Of course, each star was sure to slip into their finest Chanel looks for the occasion (couture week is all about extravagance, after all). —Christian Allaire, Vogue, 28 Jan. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1640, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

extravagance

noun

ex·​trav·​a·​gance ik-ˈstrav-i-gən(t)s 

1

a

: the wasteful or careless spending of money

b

: something that is extravagant

2

: the quality or fact of being extravagant