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 more spacious suites graduate to king-size beds and sumptuous baths surrounded by boldly colorful tiles. Tony Perrottet, Travel + Leisure, 14 Dec. 2024 There was simply no precedent for an artist on or even near Bey’s level releasing any kind of secret musical project on an unsuspecting pop world – let alone one this good, let alone one with an incredibly sumptuous and enriching full-length visual accompaniment. Andrew Unterberger, Billboard, 3 Dec. 2024 Further inside the home is the sumptuous living room with arched French doors that frame the views of the reflection pool. Emma Reynolds, Forbes, 26 Nov. 2024 Onassis introduces himself to her boldly, the movie shows, in 1959, by hosting a sumptuous party in her honor at a time when both of them are married to other people. Richard Brody, The New Yorker, 25 Nov. 2024 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

Podcast

Dictionary Entries Near sumptuous

Cite this Entry

“Sumptuous.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sumptuous. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!