prodigal

Definition

Wastefully extravagant.

Etymology

From Middle French prodigal, from Late Latin prōdigālis (“wasteful”), from Latin prōdigus (“wasteful, lavish, prodigal”), from prōdigō (“to consume, squander, drive forth”), from prōd- [from prō (“before, forward”)] + agō (“to drive”). Also see prodigy.

Example Sentences

• "He found himself guilty of prodigal spending during the holidays."
• "The prodigal son spent his share of his inheritance until he was destitute."
• "The prodigal heir can only waste his own substance, and the punishment falls, as it should, upon himself; but the prince has an awful responsibility,—the welfare of others is required at his hands;..."

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