prodigal Definition
- 1spending money or resources freely and recklessly; wastefully extravagant
- 2having or giving something on a lavish scale
Using prodigal: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "prodigal" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
He was prodigal with his money, spending it on expensive cars and vacations.
Example
The company's prodigal spending led to bankruptcy.
Example
She received a prodigal welcome when she returned home after years of traveling.
Example
The chef prepared a prodigal feast for the guests.
prodigal Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for prodigal
Antonyms for prodigal
Idioms Using prodigal
Example
After years of living abroad, the prodigal returns to his hometown.
Example
Even though he lost all his money, his prodigal habits die hard and he continues to spend recklessly.
Example
She lived a prodigal lifestyle, spending money on designer clothes and luxury vacations.
Phrases with prodigal
a person who leaves home to lead a life of pleasure and extravagance but later makes a repentant return
Example
After years of living abroad, he returned home as a prodigal son.
Example
She left her hometown to pursue her dreams, but eventually returned as a prodigal daughter.
Example
The government's prodigal spending has led to a national debt crisis.
Origins of prodigal
from Latin 'prodigus', meaning 'wasteful'
Summary: prodigal in Brief
The term 'prodigal' [ˈprɒd.ɪ.ɡəl] refers to reckless and wasteful spending of money or resources, often on a lavish scale. It can also describe giving or having something in an extravagant manner. Examples include 'He was prodigal with his money, spending it on expensive cars and vacations,' and 'The chef prepared a prodigal feast for the guests.' The phrase 'prodigal son' describes someone who leaves home to lead a life of pleasure and extravagance but later makes a repentant return.
