What does "lavish" most nearly mean?

The term "lavish" most closely refers to something that is luxurious, extravagant, or opulent. When something is described as lavish, it typically suggests that it is rich in quality, abundance, or detail—often to an excessive degree. For instance, a lavish party may include abundant decorations, gourmet food, and luxury items that create an extravagant atmosphere. This aligns precisely with the meaning of luxurious, which conveys a sense of richness and indulgence.

In contrast, options such as cruel, reluctant, and heavy do not convey the same luxurious or extravagant connotation associated with "lavish." These words focus on negative traits, hesitance, or physical weight, which are unrelated to the notion of opulence or richness that "lavish" embodies.