luxury
UK: ˈlʌkʃəri | US: ˈləɡʒəri
n. 1. A state of great comfort or elegance, especially involving great expense.
n. 2. Something desirable but expensive or hard to obtain.
n. 3. (Archaic) Lust or excessive indulgence in pleasure.
luxury = lux<light> + ury<noun suffix>
- lux (from Latin lux, meaning "light") → Symbolized wealth and splendor in ancient Rome, as light was associated with clarity, beauty, and opulence.
- ury (noun-forming suffix, via Old French -urie and Latin -uria) → Denotes a state or condition.
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin luxuria, meaning "excess" or "extravagance," derived from lux ("light"). The connection stems from the idea of brilliance and abundance—luxury items were historically rare, shining symbols of wealth. Over time, the meaning shifted from "excessive pleasure" (often negative) to its modern sense of refined comfort.
The hotel suite offered unparalleled luxury with its marble floors and panoramic views.
For her, reading a book in silence was a rare luxury.
In ancient Rome, bathing in perfumed oils was considered a luxury.
The brand is synonymous with timeless luxury and craftsmanship.
He viewed time as the ultimate luxury money couldn’t buy.