Wealthy

Definition

Wealthy refers to possessing a significant amount of money, resources, or material possessions; being rich or affluent.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈwɛl.θi/
• Respelling: WEL-thee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈwɛl.θi/
• Respelling: WEL-thee

Etymology

The word "wealthy" derives from the Middle English "welthy," a combination of "wealth," meaning "prosperity or abundance," and the suffix "-y," indicating a state or condition. "Wealth" itself originates from the Old English "wela," meaning "riches or prosperity."

Derivatives

• Wealth (noun)
• Wealthier (adjective)
• Wealthiest (adjective)
• Wealthiness (noun)
• Wealthless (adjective, rare)

Synonyms

• Affluent
• Rich
• Prosperous

Antonyms

• Poor
• Destitute
• Impoverished

Usage

The adjective "wealthy" is commonly used to describe individuals, families, or nations possessing significant financial resources, as in "She comes from a wealthy family." It can also describe something abundant or plentiful, as in "The soil is wealthy in nutrients."

Related Terms

• Affluence: Abundance of wealth or resources.
• Opulence: Great wealth or luxuriousness.
• Fortune: A large amount of money or assets.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Having an abundance of money or material possessions: Refers to being financially well-off.
  • Example: "The wealthy businessman donated generously to charity."
• Characterized by abundance or prosperity: Refers to being rich in resources, quality, or quantity.
  • Example: "The region is wealthy in natural resources."