lavish
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: //ˈlævɪʃ//
KK: /ˈlævɪʃ/
adjective
Definition
Describing something that is very generous, extravagant, or abundant, often in a way that is luxurious or excessive.
Example
The wedding was a lavish affair, with beautiful decorations and a gourmet feast.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: more lavish
Superlative: most lavish
Conversation
Did you see the lavish decorations at the party last night?
I know, right? They really went all out!
I was amazed by how lavish everything looked, especially the food.
Absolutely! It was like a feast fit for royalty.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
extravagant
opulent
sumptuous
Antonyms
meager
sparse
stingy
transitive verb
Definition
To give or provide something in large amounts, often in a generous or extravagant way.
Example
She lavished her friends with gifts for their birthdays.
Tense Forms
Past: lavished
Past Participle: lavished
Conversation
Did you see how they lavished gifts on their guests at the wedding?
I know, right? It was so extravagant!
I wish I could lavish my friends with such nice things someday.
Root Explanation
Lavish comes from the Middle English 'lavissh', which is derived from the Old French 'lavissier', meaning to wash or to pour out. The word originally referred to the act of pouring out generously, which evolved to describe something that is extravagant or abundant.
Memory Tip
Think of the idea of 'pouring out' generously — that's why 'lavish' means something that is extravagant or abundant.
Visually Confused Words
slavish
unlavish
ravish
luvish
livish
lawish
latish
lamish