Definition

A person who spends money or resources carelessly and does not work; someone who is lazy and avoids responsibility.

Example

He was known as a wastrel, always spending his inheritance on luxury instead of saving for the future.

Conversation

Did you hear about Mike? He’s turned into quite the wastrel lately.

Yeah, I noticed he spends money like it’s nothing.

It's such a shame; he used to be so responsible with his finances.

I know, right? I hope he figures it out before it's too late.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Wastrel → The word originates from the Middle English 'wastrel' (meaning a wasteful person), which is derived from the Old French 'wastrel' (meaning a wastrel or a person who wastes). The term refers to someone who squanders resources or is wasteful in their habits.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is wasteful and squanders their resources — that's what a wastrel is.

Visually Confused Words