coxcombry

American  

[koks-kohm-ree] / ˈkɒksˌkoʊm ri /

noun

plural

coxcombries

1. the manners or behavior of a coxcomb.

2. a foppish trait.

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coxcombry British  

/ ˈkɒksˌkəʊmrɪ /

noun

1. conceited arrogance or foppishness

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Etymology

Origin of coxcombry

First recorded in 1600–10; coxcomb + -ry

Example Sentences

A proverb has preserved a curious custom of ancient coxcombry, which originally came from the 49 Greeks.

From Curiosities of Literature, Vol. 3 by Disraeli, Isaac

From this to a very dashing coxcomb is but half a step, and, to be rid of the coxcombry and retain a look of fashion, is still within the easy limits of imitation.

From Stories by American Authors (Volume 4) by Woolson, Constance Fenimore

We give two or three specimens to confound at once this miserable piece of coxcombry and shuffling.

From Early Reviews of English Poets by Haney, John Louis

And, even more base than his coxcombry, he despised her because it was he, Edwin, to whom she had taken a fancy.

From Clayhanger by Bennett, Arnold

The effeminacy and coxcombry of a man’s ruff and band are well ridiculed by many of our dramatic writers.

From A History of the Cries of London Ancient and Modern by Hindley, Charles