lavish
UK: ˈlæv.ɪʃ | US: ˈlæv.ɪʃ
adj. 1. sumptuously rich, elaborate, or luxurious
adj. 2. giving or expending profusely; extravagant
vt. 3. to bestow or expend in great amounts
lavish = lav<wash> + ish<adjective suffix>
- lav (from Latin lavare, meaning "to wash") → metaphorically extended to "flow abundantly" or "pour out."
- ish (Old English -isc, forming adjectives) → implies "having the quality of."
Etymology Origin:
The word "lavish" traces back to the Latin lavare (to wash), reflecting the idea of liquid abundance. By the 15th century, it evolved in Middle English (lavas) to describe profuse pouring or spending, aligning with the imagery of overflowing water. The suffix -ish later generalized its meaning to "characterized by excess," cementing its modern sense of extravagance.
The wedding reception was a lavish affair with gold decorations and gourmet food.
She lavished praise on her team for their hard work.
Critics accused the government of lavish spending on unnecessary projects.
His lavish lifestyle eventually drained his inheritance.
The hotel rooms are lavish, featuring marble bathrooms and panoramic views.