Word of the day · 10 August 2026
lavish
/ˈlævɪʃ/
adjective
Sumptuously rich, generous or extravagant; given in great amount.
In a sentence
- The wedding featured a lavish dessert table and live strings.
- Critics called the film's costumes lavish but empty.
- Mentors gave lavish attention to the apprentices who showed up ready to work.
In an image
Origin
From Old French lavasse or lavache (a torrent of rain), related to laver (to wash); later sense of unrestrained giving.
History
Middle English lavish suggested pouring out without measure. It covered praise, spending and hospitality that overflowed. Critics can use it with admiration or with a warning about waste. As a verb it still means to give freely and abundantly.
Nearby words
extravagant · sumptuous · profuse
Abundance that does not pinch the purse or the plate.