a wealth of something
Meaning
A large and abundant supply of something valuable, desirable, or beneficial, often non-material.
Origin
The very word 'wealth' once meant more than just gleaming coins; it was about well-being, about a rich life in all its forms. Tracing back to the Old English 'wela,' it encompassed prosperity, happiness, and a state of being 'well.' Over centuries, its primary association tightened around material riches—gold, land, possessions. Yet, the deep-seated sense of 'abundance' never quite vanished. It was this broader, older meaning that resurrected itself in the phrase 'a wealth of something.' Suddenly, one could possess not just a wealth of gold, but a wealth of knowledge, a wealth of experience, or even a wealth of opportunities, reclaiming its ancient, expansive meaning to describe an overflowing plenty of any valuable thing, tangible or not.
Examples
- The university library boasted a wealth of ancient manuscripts and rare books, attracting scholars from around the globe.
- Through her extensive travels and diverse career, she accumulated a wealth of practical experience and cultural understanding.