sumptuous

adjective

sump·​tu·​ous ˈsəm(p)(t)-shə-wəs 

-shəs,

-shwəs

: extremely costly, rich, luxurious, or magnificent

sumptuous banquets

a sumptuous residence

also : magnificent sense 4

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.

Synonyms

• Babylonian
• deluxe
• lavish
• Lucullan
• Lucullian
• luxe
• luxuriant
• luxurious
• luxury
• opulent
• palace
• palatial
• plush
• plushy
• silken

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

His sumptuous volley thumped beyond David de Gea and into the back of the Manchester United net had put Crystal Palace ahead 78 minutes into the 2016 final. —Matt Woosnam, New York Times, 13 May 2025

On your last night in Oman, prepare to feast on sumptuous contemporary Italian seafood in the hotel’s elegant Roberto’s. —Natasha Amar, Forbes.com, 11 May 2025

The opening-day negotiations were held in the sumptuous 18th century Villa Saladin overlooking Lake Geneva. —Paul Wiseman, Los Angeles Times, 10 May 2025

Organizers quickly shifted gears and moved its karaoke night to the sumptuous presidential suite of the Cheval Blanc hotel, which boasts a wraparound terrace, private pool, projection room, several bedrooms, gym facilities and more. —Miles Socha, Footwear News, 25 Apr. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin sumptuosus, from sumptus

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

sumptuous

adjective

sump·​tu·​ous ˈsəm(p)-ch(ə-w)əs 

: involving large expense : lavish, luxurious

a sumptuous feast

sumptuously adverb

sumptuousness noun