Dictionary entry

Prodigal

Webster's Dictionary 1913

Prod″i‐gal (?), a. [L. prodigus, from prodigere to drive forth, to squander away; pro forward, forth + agere to drive; cf. F. prodigue. See Agent.] 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 were prodigal of blood. Dryden.

Syn. — Profuse; lavish; extravagant; squandering; wasteful. See Profuse.