profligate

IPA

Dictionary definition of profligate

Recklessly wasteful or extravagant with money or resources.
"The politicians were accused of profligate spending of public funds."

Detailed meaning of profligate

It can also be used to describe a person who engages in morally or socially unacceptable behavior, such as excessive drinking, gambling, or promiscuity. The word implies a level of dissipation and carelessness, as well as a lack of moral restraint. In other words, someone who is profligate is not very careful with the use of money and resources, they will spend it recklessly and excessively.
Additionally, it could be used to describe a person who is morally loose, lacking restraint and self-control, especially in terms of sexual conduct.

Example sentences containing profligate

1. He was known for his profligate spending habits and lavish lifestyle.
2. The company's profligate use of resources had a negative impact on the environment.
3. The profligate prince had no concept of the value of money.
4. He was criticized for his profligate and irresponsible behavior.
5. The company's profits were squandered by the profligate management team.
6. The artist's profligate ways led to his downfall and financial ruin.

History and etymology of profligate

The adjective 'profligate' has its origins in Latin, stemming from the word 'profligatus,' which is the past participle of 'profligare.' In Latin, 'profligare' meant 'to overthrow' or 'to ruin.' The term is formed from 'pro-' (meaning 'forward' or 'completely') and 'fligere' (meaning 'to strike' or 'to dash down'). Over time, the word 'profligate' evolved to describe individuals or actions that are recklessly wasteful or extravagant, often with money or resources. Its etymology reflects the notion of squandering or dashing down resources without regard for consequences, emphasizing the extravagant and reckless nature of such behavior.

Quiz: Find the meaning of profligate

answer1

answer2

answer3

answer4

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

Further usage examples of profligate

1. He appeared unperturbed by his daughter's profligate spending habits.
2. His profligate use of alcohol and drugs ultimately led to his untimely death.
3. The profligate nobleman was constantly in debt and had to sell his ancestral home.
4. The company's profligate approach to growth led to their downfall.
5. The profligate yacht club president was voted out of office due to financial mismanagement.
6. His profligate lifestyle left him with nothing to show for his many years of success.
7. Her profligate spending habits drained her bank account rapidly.
8. Profligate resource use harms the planet's ecosystems.
9. The profligate display of wealth was distasteful to many.
10. Profligate behavior often conceals deep insecurities.
11. The profligate use of public funds raised eyebrows.
12. Profligate habits can strain personal relationships.
13. Profligate indulgence often leads to health issues.
14. The profligate use of plastic harms marine life.
15. Profligate lifestyles can leave individuals in financial ruin.
16. His profligate generosity knew no bounds.
17. The profligate use of natural resources is unsustainable.
18. Profligate habits can lead to personal bankruptcy.
19. Profligate travelers often find themselves in debt.
20. Profligate consumption drives up environmental costs.
21. The profligate waste of food contributes to hunger.
22. Profligate partying left a mess for others to clean.
23. Profligate habits catch up with people eventually.
24. Profligate spending without savings leads to instability.
25. Profligate corporate practices harm both workers and communities.