# opulence

/ˈɑpjəɫəns/ (US) · /ˈɒpjʊləns/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/opulence
Updated: 2026-10-12

## Definition

a quality of being very expensive, grand, and impressive. You use this to describe places or things that show great wealth.

For teachers: great wealth or luxuriousness, especially when shown in a very obvious or grand way. Refers to the quality of being lavish or costly in appearance.

## Examples

- The opulence of the hotel lobby surprised the guests.
- The royal palace was famous for its opulence, featuring gold-plated furniture and rare marble floors.
- Critics argued that the sheer opulence of the gala was insensitive given the city's current economic struggles, noting that the floral arrangements alone cost more than a modest house.

## Usage notes

- Typically used to describe physical environments, lifestyles, or decor rather than abstract concepts.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.