rich
/ɹɪt͡ʃ/
The word centers on the concept of abundance, intensity, and saturation. Whether referring to money, nutrients, flavor, or sound, it describes a state where there is "more than enough" of a desirable quality. In financial contexts, it is more direct and common than "wealthy," which often implies long-term stability or social class. While usually positive, calling someone "rich" can sometimes carry a connotation of materialism or excess depending on the tone. When applied to food, it shifts toward a feeling of heaviness. A "rich" dessert is luxurious but can become cloying or overwhelming if there is too much of it. In sensory contexts (color and sound), it suggests depth and warmth. A rich red is not just bright; it is saturated and deep. A rich voice has resonance and complexity, evoking a feeling of quality and fullness.
💬Casual Conversation
This new season pass is actually wild. You gotta be rich to keep up with it.
Yeah, my mom cut me off for V-Bucks. We'll have to chill on spending.
Meanings
Having a great deal of money or assets; wealthy.
"The rich businessman donated millions to the local hospital."
Containing a large amount of a particular nutrient, ingredient, or quality.
"This soil is very rich in organic matter, making it ideal for farming."
Collocations & Compounds
rich country
A country with a high level of wealth and economic development.
Switzerland is known as a rich country.
rich food
Food that is very rich, fatty, or sweet, often considered indulgent.
After the large meal, I felt too full from the rich food.
rich history
A long and significant past with many important events or developments.
The city boasts a rich history dating back to Roman times.
rich soil
Soil that is fertile and contains a large amount of organic matter, ideal for plant growth.
The farmer's market offered vegetables grown in rich soil.
rich tapestry
A complex and varied combination of elements, often used metaphorically.
The novel presents a rich tapestry of human emotions.
Idioms & Sayings
born rich
To be born into a wealthy family.
He never had to worry about money because he was born rich.
get rich quick
To make a lot of money in a short period of time, usually through dubious means.
Be wary of schemes promising to help you get rich quick.
rich and famous
Having a great deal of money and being widely known.
Many aspiring actors dream of becoming rich and famous.
rich pickings
Opportunities that are likely to yield a lot of profit or benefit.
The newly discovered oil field offered rich pickings for the investors.
Etymology
The word 'rich' comes from the Old French word 'riche', meaning 'wealthy, powerful, splendid'. This, in turn, derives from the Proto-Germanic word 'rīkiaz', meaning 'ruler, powerful, rich', which is also the source of words like 'king' and 'reich' (German for 'empire' or 'realm'). The ultimate origin is likely Indo-European 'reg-', meaning 'to move in a straight line, to direct, to rule'. The word entered Middle English around the 13th century, initially referring to wealth and material possessions, but its sense evolved to include abundance, intensity, and depth in various contexts.