V2 Vocabulary Building Dictionary
ostentatious
adjective
Definition: being showy, conspicuous, or pretentious, usually in an attempt to get others to notice
Synonyms: showy, pretentious, garish, grandiose, gaudy, flashy, pompous, extravagant, flamboyant, boastful
Antonyms: modest, understated, tasteful, unpretentious
Tips: Ostentatious is derived from the Latin ostendere, which means "to show or display." Think, showing something just to impress others. The word ostentatious often carries a connotation of disapproval. The related noun ostentation refers to a vulgar display of wealth, knowledge, or success, especially used to gain the admiration of others. Ostentatious is synonymous with pretentious and pompous. See a detailed analysis at pretentious.
Usage Examples:
Of course he was thrilled to have won the competition, but wearing his medal around his neck for the next week was rather ostentatious. (pretentious, boastful)
The huge, diamond-encrusted Rolex on his wrist isn't tasteful, it's ostentatious. (extravagant, garish)
She loved to flaunt her ostentatious jewelry and mink coats among her less-wealthy friends. (showy, flamboyant)
That era was marked by relentless capitalism, widespread corruption, vulgar taste, and ostentatious displays of wealth. (extravagant, boastful)
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