pontification

[ pon-tif-i-key-shuhn ]

noun

1. pompous or dogmatic speech:

   I could emphasize research, or I could engage in pure pontification with no sources whatsoever.

Word History and Origins

Origin of pontification¹

pontificat(e) ( def ) + -ion ( def )

Example Sentences

I ask this question as Donald Trump is calling on the God Squad this week for pontification, gesticulation, inspection, detection, rejection of reality and, in an attempt to avoid the putrefaction of his presidential campaign less than a week after the end of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, emancipation and exoneration.

From Salon

“I am very sloppy. I do it quickly and let it be, and some pieces come out better than others,” declares Suarez Frimkess, who prefers the understatement and deadpan humor of her favorite comic strips to art world pontification.

From Los Angeles Times

In it, Vance apparently agrees with a podcast host's pontification on the "purpose" of "postmenopausal women," language choices that only make sense if you think women have no value outside of baby-making.

From Salon

The cataract of news and pontification about Henry Kissinger's death reminds me of an email I sent out nine years ago with some notes on a book that chillingly documented — mostly from Kissinger's own words — a piece of his record that should be getting a lot more attention.

From Salon

A slow late-summer news cycle has brought us fresh pontification about how President Biden, still battling gruesome polling and growing concerns about his age and appeal, should inject new life into his campaign by picking a new running mate for 2024.

From Slate