lavish - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
lavish Word Meanings
- sumptuous or extravagant in display or spending
- to give in great amounts
- to bestow something generously
lavish Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
lavish Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈlævɪʃ/
US
/ˈlævɪʃ/
lavish Word Etymology
The word 'lavish' comes from the Middle English 'lavissh' which is derived from the Old French 'lavissier', meaning 'to wash'. The image of a lavish banquet brings to mind a table overflowing with food, representing abundance and generosity.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Lavish describes things that show abundance and splendor, often beyond necessity. As an adjective it signals extravagance in display or spending, and it can praise beauty when something is artful and generous, though it can also imply excess. As a verb, to lavish means to shower someone with gifts, praise, or attention in great amounts. Common collocations include lavish praise, lavish gifts, lavish spending, and lavish lifestyle. You can say someone is lavish with their time or money, or that a party was lavish in its decorations. Learners should distinguish lavish from luxury (often about objects) and extravagant (emphasizes excess).
Usage Reminders
- Use lavish with things, not people; say lavish praise or lavish spending; you can be lavish with time, money, or gifts; avoid overusing with negative tone; remember related terms luxury and extravagant; keep tone appropriate to context.
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing lavish with luxurious (objects vs behavior)
- Thinking it always means negative excess
- Using lavish only for money-related contexts
- Mixing up lavish with 'lavish on someone' vs 'lavish with someone' usage
- Overgeneralizing to describe people as lavish
Thinking Differences
In English, lavish can imply admiration for beauty or generosity but often signals excess; learners should note it can describe behavior or scenes, not just objects.
Learning Tips
- Link lavish to concrete nouns (praise, gifts, spending)
- Practice collocations in sentences
- Compare with luxury and extravagant in context
- Note informal versus formal register
- Use with objects and abstract nouns
- Record common mistakes and corrections
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'lavish'?
A.Plain
B.Nervous
C.Quick
D.Abundant
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'lavish' correctly?
A.He was always modest in his spending habits.
B.She always saved money for a rainy day.
C.The students hurried to finish their homework.
D.The wealthy couple lived in a lavish mansion.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'lavish'?
A.Frugal
B.Sparse
C.Generous
D.Mundane
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'lavish'?
A.Opulent
B.Luxuriant
C.Scanty
D.Extravagant
Step 5: Mastery
In what situation would someone be described as 'lavish'?
A.Wearing expensive jewelry
B.Eating at a fast food restaurant
C.Living in a small apartment
D.Taking a budget-friendly vacation
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