# prosperous

/ˈpɹɑspɝəs/ (US) · /pɹˈɒspəɹəs/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/prosperous
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. wealthy and successful

adjective · CEFR B2

successful and having a lot of money.

For teachers: characterised by financial success, affluence, and material well-being.

- The city became very prosperous after the new tech companies moved in.
- The region's prosperous middle class drove a surge in demand for luxury goods and high-end services throughout the decade.

Usage: often describes businesses, countries, or families.

### 2. favourable

adjective · CEFR C1 · Formal

likely to bring success or good results.

For teachers: tending to favour or bring about success; auspicious or promising.

- The ship waited for a prosperous wind before leaving the harbour.
- Despite a prosperous start to the negotiations, the two parties eventually reached a deadlock over environmental regulations.

Usage: usually describes conditions, winds, or beginnings.

## Examples

- The city became very prosperous after the new factory opened.
- Many families moved to the suburbs during that prosperous decade, seeking larger homes and better schools.
- The treaty ushered in a prosperous era of maritime trade, allowing the small island nation to exert influence far beyond its geographical borders.

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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.