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extravagantly
/ɪkˈstrævəɡəntli/
in an excessive or lavish way
She dressed extravagantly for the party, wearing a sequined gown and diamond jewelry.
She wore extremely fancy and excessive clothing and accessories for the party.
formal
in a way that is excessive or beyond reasonable limits, often involving wasteful spending or indulgence
The billionaire lived extravagantly, throwing parties with rare wines and gold-plated furniture.
The billionaire spent money in an extremely lavish and wasteful manner.
The movie was decorated extravagantly with bright colors and intricate designs.
The movie's decorations were excessively elaborate and over-the-top.
Often implies a lack of restraint or practicality, especially in spending or behavior.
Collocations
live extravagantlyto spend or live in a very luxurious and wasteful wayspend extravagantlyto spend money in a way that is excessive or wasteful
Pro Tip
Avoid overusing 'extravagantly'
While 'extravagantly' is useful, it can sound dramatic. Consider alternatives like 'lavishly' or 'excessively' depending on the context to avoid sounding hyperbolic.
Gold Rule
Use 'extravagantly' for behavior, not just spending
The word applies to any action that is excessive, not just financial. For example, 'She danced extravagantly' implies her dancing was overly dramatic or elaborate.
Word Origin
From Latin *extravagant-* (past participle stem of *extravagari*, meaning 'to wander outside') + *-ly* (English adverbial suffix). The Latin root combines *extra-* ('outside') and *vagari* ('to wander'). Originally meant 'wandering beyond bounds,' later evolving to describe excessive behavior or spending.
Usage Notes
Commonly used to describe spending habits, lifestyle choices, or artistic styles that are overly elaborate or indulgent. Can carry a negative connotation, implying recklessness or poor judgment.
Word Breakdown
extra-
beyond, outside
prefixvagant-
wandering
root-ly
adverb-forming suffix
suffixEnglish Dictionary