Opulent means extremely luxurious, lavish, and expensive-looking. An opulent palace might have crystal chandeliers, marble floors, gold-trimmed furniture, and silk curtains. An opulent feast features elaborate dishes, fancy decorations, and more food than anyone could possibly eat.

The word suggests wealth on display, visible and impressive to everyone. A rich person might live simply, but an opulent mansion announces its luxury to everyone who sees it. Think of the difference between a nice, comfortable room and the grand ballroom in Beauty and the Beast, with its soaring ceiling and glittering decorations.

You'll often see opulent describing places (opulent hotels), events (opulent weddings), or clothing (opulent gowns covered in jewels and embroidery). The word carries a sense of impressive abundance, sometimes bordering on excess.

Something opulent exceeds ordinary needs dramatically and beautifully, surrounding you with the finest, most expensive things available. When describing someone's lifestyle as opulent, it means they surround themselves with extraordinary luxury and visible wealth.