Extravagants

Part of speech: noun, adjective

Definitions

  1. People who display excessive spending or indulgence ; those who act with lavishness or lack of restraint in their lifestyle ; individuals marked by ostentatious or wasteful behaviors
  2. Persons characterized by unchecked opulence ; those notable for over-the-top or unrestrained luxury ; individuals who live or act in a grandiose or prodigal manner
  3. Individuals prone to excessive or flamboyant expenditure ; people whose habits are defined by unreserved or showy consumption ; those who engage in costly or imprudent splendor

Etymology: The root of this term lies in the Latin verb "extravagari," which means "to wander beyond" or "to stray outside." This verb itself combines "extra," meaning "outside," with "vagari," meaning "to wander." The sense of going beyond established bounds is central to the word's evolution. Originally, this idea of wandering outside a set path transferred metaphorically to behavior or spending that exceeded conventional limits. By the late Middle Ages, the adjective form was used in English to describe actions or ideas that were excessive, wasteful, or lavish to an unusual degree. From the 16th century onward, it took on a more moral or social judgment, suggesting not only abundance but imprudence or lack of restraint. When used as a noun, it often referred to those who engaged in such excessive or extravagant behavior. The plural form, as seen here, typically denotes individuals characterized by lavishness or excess, though it is less common than the adjective usage. The shift from a verb about physical wandering to describing excessive conduct shows the word’s movement from a literal to a figurative realm, capturing social attitudes toward moderation and excess. In summary, this word’s journey from Latin through Medieval English reflects a broadening from the idea of physical straying to moral and financial extravagance. It serves as a linguistic reminder of how concepts of boundaries—whether physical, social, or economic—shape vocabulary over centuries.

Synonyms: spenders, wasteful, lavish, profligate, imprudent

Antonyms: frugal, thrifty, economical, stingy, parsimonious