ostentatious

[ os-ten-tey-shuhs, -tuhn- ]

adjective

1. characterized by or given to pretentious or conspicuous show in an attempt to impress others:

   an ostentatious dresser.

2. (of actions, manner, qualities exhibited, etc.) intended to attract notice:

   Lady Bountiful's ostentatious charity.

Other Words From

• osten·tatious·ly adverb
• osten·tatious·ness noun
• unos·ten·tatious adjective
• unos·ten·tatious·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of ostentatious¹

First recorded in 1650–60; ostentat(ion) + -ious

Synonym Study

See grandiose.

Example Sentences

“On paper, Ignite’s CEO was Bilzerian’s son D.B. — a professional poker player who gained notoriety on social media for his glamorous and ostentatious lifestyle,” the U.S. attorney’s office in L.A. said in a news release.

From Los Angeles Times

While many of the spectators sported incredible hair styles, smelled like department stores and wore Cartier bracelets and Italian leather loafers, I had expected significantly more ostentatious energy than I actually witnessed.

From Salon

Republicans’ submission to Donald Trump’s narcissistic and often un-American whims is at odds with the party’s ostentatious displays of love of country.

From Los Angeles Times

Several other popular influencers have also seen their accounts deleted in a campaign that China's internet watchdog has said was aimed at banning "vulgar" and deliberately ostentatious content.

From BBC

One change they demanded, and got, was an end to the ostentatious practice of “harambee” – politicians giving large sums of money to the Church.

From BBC

Related Words

• classy
• conspicuous
• extravagant
• flamboyant
• garish
• gaudy
• glittery
• jaunty
• splashy
• swank