prosperity

noun

pros·​per·​i·​ty prä-ˈsper-ə-tē How to pronounce prosperity (audio)
Synonyms of prosperity
: the condition of being successful or thriving
especially : economic well-being

Examples of prosperity in a Sentence

a period of prosperity for our nation
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Volkswagen’s prosperity was recently based on two pillars – huge profits earned in China, and the highly successful German base where its engineers led the world for decades in making and exporting advanced sedans and SUVs. — Neil Winton, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2026 Bovines are a blessing The sentiment comes from the respect people here have for cows, seen for many generations as providers of sustenance and prosperity. — Fatma Tanis, NPR, 27 Aug. 2026 But each time humanity has come out with more people sharing greater prosperity, health, and freedom. — Michael Kan, PC Magazine, 26 Aug. 2026 For decades Canada has relied on the American military for its security and the American market for its prosperity. — Sara Miller Llana, Christian Science Monitor, 24 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for prosperity

Word History

Etymology

Middle English prosperite, borrowed from Anglo-French prosperité, borrowed from Latin prosperitāt-, prosperitās "favorable state or outcome, success," from prosperus "agreeable to one's wishes, successful" + -itāt-, -itās -ity — more at prosperous

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of prosperity was in the 13th century

Phrases Containing prosperity

Rhymes for prosperity

See All Rhymes for prosperity

Browse Nearby Words

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prosperity
Prospero
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Cite this Entry

“Prosperity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prosperity. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

prosperity

noun
pros·​per·​i·​ty prä-ˈsper-ət-ē How to pronounce prosperity (audio)
: the state of being prosperous or successful

More from Merriam-Webster on prosperity

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