affluent
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈæfluənt/
KK: /ˈæfluənt/
adjective
Definition
Having a lot of money, property, or valuable things; being wealthy or prosperous.
Example
The affluent neighborhood was filled with luxurious homes and expensive cars.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: more affluent
Superlative: most affluent
Conversation
Have you seen the new houses in that neighborhood?
Yeah, they're really impressive and so affluent.
I can't believe how much they cost, though!
I know, but it's interesting to see how affluent areas develop.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
wealthy
prosperous
rich
Antonyms
poor
impoverished
needy
noun
Definition
A person who has a lot of money and resources, often living a comfortable and luxurious life.
Example
The affluent community built a new park for its residents.
Conversation
Have you heard about the new club opening in town for the affluents?
Yeah, I read about it; they say it's going to be exclusive and fancy.
I wonder if it's worth going, considering all the affluents will be there.
Root Explanation
Affluent is derived from the Latin "affluens" (meaning flowing to or towards) which comes from "ad-" (meaning to) and "fluere" (meaning to flow). The word describes a state of having a flow of wealth or resources.
Memory Tip
Think of wealth 'flowing to' someone — 'ad-' means to, and 'fluere' means to flow, which helps you remember that affluent refers to having an abundance of wealth.
Visually Confused Words
effluent
fluent
subaffluent
diffluent
aflaunt
abluent