Exorbitant

The Dutch developed an obsession with tulips in the 17th century in what has come to be named “tulip mania”. At its height, tulips reached exorbitant prices, selling for the equivalent of 10 to 15 million of today’s dollars for a single bulb. An impressive tulip garden represented the pinnacle of success — until the craze suddenly ended and the economy crashed.

Exorbitant (pronounced “ig-ZOR-bih-tənt”)

Exceeding all bounds, as of custom or fairness: exorbitant prices.

Etymology

Appeared mid-15th century. From Latin exorbitare meaning “to deviate, go out of track”. Exorbitare is a combination of ex, meaning “out of” + orbita, “wheel track”.

Synonyms

outrageous, inordinate, extortionate, unconscionable, undue

Source

Botany of Desire (PDF File) |   Photo by: Delphine