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recklessly extravagant or wasteful in the use of resources.
synonyms:extravagantwasteful
The word 'profligate' originates from the Latin 'profligatus', which means 'overthrown' or 'ruined'. This Latin term itself comes from 'profligare', meaning 'to strike down' or 'to destroy'.
The term is often used in discussions about finance, economics, and moral behavior, typically to describe excessive spending or wastefulness.
While 'profligate' is not commonly used in everyday conversation, it appears in more formal contexts, particularly in literature and discussions about economics or ethics.
Despite his profligate lifestyle, he managed to maintain a facade of wealth and success.
The company's profligate spending on lavish parties ultimately led to its financial downfall.
She was known for her profligate generosity, often giving away more than she could afford.
The term 'profligate' paints a vivid picture of someone who is not just wasteful, but extravagantly so. With roots in Latin, it evokes a sense of destruction—not just of resources, but of prudence itself. Often used in the context of financial discussions, calling someone profligate implies a moral judgment about their choices. So next time you're tempted to splurge on that luxury item, remember: moderation might just be the wiser path!