\Rich"es\, 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.
         Riches do not consist in having more gold and
         silver, but in having more in proportion, than our
         neighbors.                            --Locke.
2. That which appears rich, sumptuous, precious, or the like.
         The riche of heaven's pavement, trodden gold.
                                               --Milton.
Note: 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.
            Against the richesses of this world shall they
            have misease of poverty.           --Chaucer.
            In one hour so great riches is come to nought.
                                               --Rev. xviii.
                                               17.
            And for that riches where is my deserving?
                                               --Shak.
Syn: Wealth; opulence; affluence; wealthiness; richness;
     plenty; abundance.