Definition

The act of wasting resources carelessly or extravagantly, often in a way that is considered immoral or irresponsible.

Example

The profligacy of the government in spending taxpayer money led to public outrage.

Conversation

Have you noticed how some people spend money without any thought?

Yeah, it seems like such a wasteful profligacy sometimes.

Exactly! It's shocking to see that kind of careless behavior.

Right? It makes you appreciate being more responsible with money.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Profligacy → It is formed from "pro-" (meaning forward or away) and "fligere" (meaning to strike down). The word describes a state of being recklessly extravagant or wasteful, as if one is striking down resources without care.

Memory Tip

Think of 'striking down' ('fligere') resources 'forward' or 'away' ('pro-') — this helps you remember that profligacy means being recklessly wasteful.

Visually Confused Words