pageantry

[ paj-uhn-tree ]

noun

, plural pag·eant·ries.

1. spectacular display; pomp:

   the pageantry of a coronation.

   Synonyms: show, ceremony, spectacle

2. mere show; empty display.
3. pageants collectively; pageants and the performance of pageants.

pageantry

/ ˈpædʒəntrɪ /

noun

1. spectacular display or ceremony
2. archaic.
   pageants collectively

Word History and Origins

Origin of pageantry¹

First recorded in 1600–10; pageant + -ry

Example Sentences

There was no pageantry or grand exposition behind its reason for being.

From Los Angeles Times

Robinson was excited about running his own team and returning to the pageantry of college football, which in USC’s case featured Traveler, the Trojans’ equine mascot who sprinted along the sideline.

From Los Angeles Times

However, we all could stand to remember that Christmas is about so much more than pageantry, and that the roots of these rituals come from stories of togetherness and charity.

From Los Angeles Times

As a child he was fascinated by Native American traditions, which made far more sense to him than the pageantry of the church.

From Los Angeles Times

On her sprawling new album, pop’s foremost musicologist explores country music’s history and leans into its wit, style and pageantry.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• grandeur
• magnificence
• pageant
• pomp
• spectacle
• splendor