prodigal

This term carries a strong association with reckless extravagance and a lack of restraint. While it describes wastefulness, it often implies a certain level of boldness or arrogance in the spending, rather than simple poor budgeting. In a social or familial context, the word is heavily influenced by the biblical parable of the Prodigal Son. This adds a layer of redemption and forgiveness to the term, shifting the focus from the act of wasting wealth to the act of returning home in humility after a period of failure.