n. pl. [ OE. richesse, F. richesse, from riche rich, of German origin. See Rich, a. ] 1. That which makes one rich; an abundance of land, goods, money, or other property; wealth; opulence; affluence. [ 1913 Webster ] Riches do not consist in having more gold and silver, but in having more in proportion, than our neighbors. Locke. [ 1913 Webster ] 2. That which appears rich, sumptuous, precious, or the like. [ 1913 Webster ] The riche of heaven's pavement, trodden gold. Milton. [ 1913 Webster ] ☞ Richesse, the older form of this word, was in the singular number. The form riches, however, is plural in appearance, and has now come to be used as a plural. [ 1913 Webster ] Against the richesses of this world shall they have misease of poverty. Chaucer. [ 1913 Webster ] In one hour so great riches is come to nought. Rev. xviii. 17. [ 1913 Webster ] And for that riches where is my deserving? Shak. [ 1913 Webster ] Syn. -- Wealth; opulence; affluence; wealthiness; richness; plenty; abundance. [ 1913 Webster ] | 
