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prosperous

Successful in material terms; flourishing financially. / Bringing wealth or success; favorable.

/ˈpɹɒs.p(ə.)ɹəs/

Adjective
comp: more prosperoussup: most prosperous

Prosperous conveys a sense of sustained success and stability rather than a sudden windfall. It describes a state of being where wealth is not just present, but growing and flourishing.

While "rich" or "wealthy" simply describe the possession of money, "prosperous" suggests a healthy, thriving condition. It often carries an aura of respectability and social standing, implying that the success was earned through growth or favorable circumstances.

In formal greetings (like New Year's wishes), it functions as a hopeful projection of future abundance and good fortune. It is generally positive and avoids the connotations of greed or excess associated with words like "opulent".

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon, Chloe is procrastinating on a sociology essay in the library.
Chloe Smith

I'm literally broke. Why did I think this degree would lead to a prosperous life?

I'm literally broke. Why did I think this degree would lead to a prosperous life?

Chloe Smith
Fatima
Fatima

Stop spiraling and just grind out the last two pages.

Stop spiraling and just grind out the last two pages.

Meanings

Adjective

Successful in material terms; flourishing financially.

The city became a prosperous trading hub during the 19th century.

Adjective

Bringing wealth or success; favorable.

We wish you a happy and prosperous New Year.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin prosperus, meaning fortunate or lucky, which is a combination of pro meaning according to or in favor of and spere meaning hope. It entered Middle English via the Old French prospere.

Related Words

Last Updated: June 22, 2026Report an Error