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profligacy

noun

/ˈprɒf lɪ gə si/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of profligacy

The reckless, extravagant, and wasteful behavior, particularly in the context of excessive spending, indulgence, or immorality.
"Her profligacy with water during the drought was a topic of concern among neighbors."

Detailed meaning of profligacy

It signifies a lack of restraint or self-control, often characterized by lavishness, extravagance, or a disregard for consequences. Profligacy can encompass various aspects of life, including finances, lifestyle choices, or moral conduct. It is associated with a lack of prudence or responsibility in managing resources, leading to squandering of wealth, time, or opportunities. This term often carries a negative connotation, suggesting an excessive or irresponsible lifestyle that may lead to personal, social, or financial repercussions. Profligacy stands in contrast to frugality and moderation, representing a tendency to prioritize immediate gratification over long-term stability or well-being.

Example sentences containing profligacy

1. His financial profligacy led him to bankruptcy in no time.
2. The government's profligacy with taxpayers' money was widely criticized.
3. He realized that his profligacy was a result of not valuing the small things in life.
4. The charity event aimed to combat the profligacy of modern consumer culture.
5. The emperor's profligacy was legendary, with tales of lavish feasts and opulent gifts.
6. As an environmentalist, I cannot ignore the profligacy with which our society consumes natural resources.

History and etymology of profligacy

The noun 'profligacy' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'profligatus,' which is the past participle of 'profligare,' meaning 'to strike down' or 'to overthrow.' In Latin, 'profligatus' was used to describe something that had been ruined or destroyed. Over time, this concept evolved to connote reckless and extravagant behavior, particularly in the context of excessive spending, indulgence, or immorality that could lead to one's downfall. As it transitioned into Old French as 'profligacie' and later into English, it retained its association with wasteful and immoral behavior. The etymology of 'profligacy' underscores its historical connection to the idea of reckless extravagance and moral decay, highlighting its role in describing behavior that can lead to personal or societal downfall.

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Further usage examples of profligacy

1. The company went under due to the profligacy of the CEO in his spending and investments.
2. The book outlines the shocking profligacy of Hollywood during the Golden Age of Cinema.
3. The government needs to rein in its profligacy to avoid a fiscal crisis.
4. The college student's profligacy with his financial aid was a recipe for disaster.
5. Her profligacy in buying clothes she never wore eventually cluttered her entire house.
6. The profligacy of the aristocracy during the French Revolution contributed to their downfall.
7. Their profligacy in the early days of success led the band to struggle later in their careers.
8. The documentary highlights the profligacy of the fashion industry and its impact on the environment.
9. The profligacy of his spending left him in financial ruin.
10. Her profligacy with credit cards led to massive debt.
11. Society frowned upon his profligacy with alcohol.
12. The profligacy of the royal court was legendary.
13. Their profligacy drained the company's resources.
14. The profligacy of the party shocked the neighbors.
15. His profligacy with resources angered his colleagues.
16. She was known for her profligacy with designer clothes.
17. The profligacy of youth often leads to regret.
18. His profligacy knew no bounds when it came to gambling.
19. The profligacy of politicians is a source of public outrage.
20. The profligacy of their lifestyle was unsustainable.
21. The city's profligacy with water resources was unsustainable.
22. The profligacy of the entertainment industry is astounding.
23. The profligacy of corporate executives raised eyebrows.
24. The profligacy of the party's budget was evident.
25. His profligacy with charitable donations was criticized.
26. The profligacy of the government's spending alarmed citizens.
27. She hid her profligacy behind a facade of wealth.
28. The profligacy of the oil industry harms the environment.