
Ostentatious
Characterized by or given to pretentious, showy display designed to attract attention; flashy and conspicuous.
adjectiveOstentatious
Characterized by or given to pretentious, showy display designed to attract attention; flashy and conspicuous.
adjective
Imagine This
Picture a socialite at a gala wearing a gold-plated cape encrusted with diamonds, while cameras flash from every angle and guests whisper about the outfitβevery movement is a performance designed to be noticed.
Sounds Like
os-TEN-tee-uhs
Looks Like
Similar to ostentation; resembles the noun ostentation in meaning and form.
Remember This
Root meaning is to show off; the word comes from Latin ostentare 'to show forth' via ostentatio; it is commonly used to critique excessive displays of wealth or vanity.
Other Forms
Connect With
showy, gaudy, flashy, pretentious, flamboyant, conspicuous
Note
Use sparingly and be mindful of tone. Not every flashy display is ostentatious; the word conveys a strong, often negative, emphasis on conspicuous showing-off.
