Definition
Affluent means having a great deal of money or being wealthy. It can also describe a flow of water or a stream.
Pronunciation
US English
UK English
Part of Speech
Adjective
Synonyms
wealthy, rich, prosperous, well-off, moneyed, opulent, comfortable, well-to-do, flourishing, thriving.
Antonyms
Poor, impoverished, destitute, indigent, needy, penniless.
Word Forms
| Part of Speech | Words |
|---|---|
| Noun | affluents, affluence, affluences, affluent |
| Verb | None |
| Adjective | affluent |
| Adverb | None |
Example Sentences
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The affluent community was able to provide for its residents with top-of-the-line amenities.
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Her family’s affluent lifestyle allowed her to attend prestigious private schools.
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The river flowing through the affluent neighborhood was used for fishing and recreation by its residents.
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Despite being raised in an affluent household, he decided to pursue a career in social work to help those in need.
Usage
Affluent is a versatile word that can be used to describe both people and things that possess wealth or abundance. It is commonly used to describe prosperous neighborhoods or communities that are characterized by luxurious homes and top-notch amenities. For example, an affluent neighborhood may have large estates, swimming pools, and tennis courts. Likewise, an affluent community may have excellent schools, shopping centers, and green spaces.
The word “affluent” comes from the Latin word “affluere,” which means “to flow forth.” The word has been used in English for centuries to describe the flow of water or other liquids. However, its meaning has evolved over time to include its use as an adjective that describes material abundance or wealth.
The word affluent can also be modified using various prefixes and suffixes to create new words with related meanings. For example, the prefix “super-” can be added to create the word “superaffluent,” which describes individuals or groups that are extremely wealthy. Other variations include “affluence,” which refers to material abundance, and “affluenza,” which is a term coined to describe a psychological condition causing feelings of entitlement among those living privileged lifestyles.
The word affluent can also be used in a negative context to describe excessive wealth and materialism. In this sense, the word takes on a pejorative connotation, implying that the wealthy are selfish and disconnected from the struggles of the less fortunate. In this way, the word affluent can be used as a criticism of society’s focus on money and possessions rather than more meaningful values.