What does lavishly mean?
Lavishly means in a generous, abundant, or extravagant manner. It is commonly used with verbs such as decorate, equip, fund, entertain, praise, and spend, and often suggests that the amount involved is greater than usual or necessary. The word can be complimentary when it describes impressive hospitality, generous support, or abundant resources, but it can also carry a negative implication of wastefulness or excess. For example, a lavishly furnished hotel may be admired for its comfort and design, while a lavishly decorated event may be criticized as unnecessarily extravagant. It is a relatively formal word and is equally common in British and American English.
adverbGenerously or extravagantly, especially in giving money, resources, or attention. It can also mean in a large or excessive amount.
- In a generous or extravagant manner, especially by giving or spending a large amount.
"The couple lavishly decorated their new home for the celebration."
"The charity was lavishly supported by donors from around the country."
"The minister lavishly praised the volunteers despite their limited resources."
To spend lavishly is to give or use so much that the scale itself becomes part of the story.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does lavishly come from?
The adverb is formed in English from the adjective lavish, a word that entered English from French during the 16th century in the sense of extravagant or overflowing. Its modern use developed from the idea of giving or spending in an abundant, unrestrained manner. The precise ultimate origin of the French source is less certain, so it is best understood through the established English formation rather than assigned a speculative deeper root.
How lavishly is actually used
Often implies an unusually large or excessive amount. It can be approving when describing generous hospitality or support, but critical when suggesting waste or extravagance.
Easily confused with lavishly
Lavish is the adjective describing something generous or extravagant, whereas lavishly is the adverb describing how such generosity or extravagance is carried out.