Definition

In a way that is extravagant or wasteful, often referring to spending money or resources without care.

Example

He spent his inheritance prodigally, buying expensive cars and traveling around the world.

Conversation

Did you hear about Jake's last vacation?

Yeah, he spent money prodigally on fancy hotels and dining.

I can't believe how much he wasted!

Right? It’s like he didn’t even care about the budget.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Prodigally → It is formed from "prodigus" (meaning wasteful or extravagant) and the adverbial suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner of). The word "prodigally" means in a wasteful or extravagant manner.

Memory Tip

Think of someone being 'wasteful' ('prodigus') and doing so 'in a manner' ('-ly'). This helps you remember that prodigally refers to acting in a wasteful or extravagant way.

Visually Confused Words