bragging rights

American  

[brag-ing rahyts] / ˈbræg ɪŋ ˌraɪts /

plural noun

1. the presumed right to brag or boast, often associated with winning a contest of skill, as cooking or fishing.

---

bragging rights British  

plural noun

1. notional privileges that are gained by defeating a close rival

---

Etymology

Origin of bragging rights

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

There’s more on the line than bragging rights.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 22, 2026

Videos ranking the best players of specific games show that bragging rights accrue long after the achievement itself.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 15, 2026

St Totteringham's Day might not be that well known nationally - but for Arsenal fans it is an opportunity for more north London bragging rights.

From BBC • Mar. 1, 2026

Amen Thompson added 15 points, nine rebounds and seven assists for Houston -- gaining statistical bragging rights over his twin brother Ausar who scored 12 points with eight rebounds and three assists for Detroit.

From Barron's • Jan. 24, 2026

Of course for some Everesters myriad other, less virtuous, motives came into play, as well: minor celebrity, career advancement, ego massage, ordinary bragging rights, filthy lucre.

From "Into Thin Air" by Jon Krakauer