lavishing

Lavishing is the act of giving or using something in generous or extravagant amounts. It can refer to gifts, attention, time, money, or resources, and is characterized by abundance rather than restraint. The term is often used in both positive senses (generosity) and neutral or negative ones (excess).

Etymology and usage: The verb lavishing comes from the sense of pouring out or showering—like pouring out gifts or praise. As an adjective, lavish describes things that are sumptuously elaborate or characterized by abundance. The gerund lavishing describes the ongoing act of distributing resources or praise generously.

Common collocations include lavish gifts, lavish praise, lavish spending. In everyday use, lavishing tends to emphasize the extent of the generosity or expenditure. In business, marketing, or public life, lavish spending or gifts can attract criticism or raise concerns about waste, misallocation, or conflicts of interest.

Cultural and social perspectives on lavishing vary. It can be a sign of generosity, appreciation, or ceremonial hospitality, but can also appear wasteful or imprudent when resources are limited or when gifts create obligations or bias.