Dictionary > Prodigal

Prodigal

prodigal
given to extravagant expenditure; expending money or other things without necessity; recklessly or viciously profuse; lavish; wasteful; not frugal or economical; as, a prodigal man; the prodigal son; prodigal giving; prodigal expenses. In fighting fields patriots were prodigal of blood. (Dryden)
Synonym: profuse, lavish, extravagant, squandering, wasteful. See Profuse.
Origin: L. Prodigus, from prodigere to drive forth, to squander away; pro forward, forth – agere to drive; cf. F. Prodigue. See Agent.

Last updated on January 18th, 2021

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