ostentatious Definition
- 1characterized by vulgar or pretentious display; designed to impress or attract notice
- 2intended to attract notice and impress others in a showy way
Using ostentatious: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "ostentatious" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The ostentatious display of wealth was off-putting.
Example
She wore an ostentatious diamond necklace to the party.
Example
His ostentatious behavior made him unpopular with his colleagues.
ostentatious Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for ostentatious
Antonyms for ostentatious
Idioms Using ostentatious
something that appears impressive or attractive but is actually of little value or substance
Example
The politician's speeches were all show and no substance.
Example
She always puts on airs when she's around her wealthy friends.
Example
The expensive artwork in the lobby was just for show; it had no real value to the company.
Phrases with ostentatious
a showy exhibition of wealth, power, or status
Example
The ostentatious display of luxury cars outside the mansion was a clear indication of the owner's wealth.
an exaggerated or showy action intended to impress or attract attention
Example
He made an ostentatious gesture of handing over a large sum of money to the charity.
a way of life characterized by excessive spending and showy displays of wealth
Example
The celebrity's ostentatious lifestyle was the subject of much media scrutiny.
Origins of ostentatious
from Latin 'ostentare', meaning 'to show'
Summary: ostentatious in Brief
'Ostentatious' [ˌɒstenˈteɪʃəs] describes something that is showy, flashy, and designed to impress or attract notice. It often refers to displays of wealth, power, or status, as in 'The ostentatious display of luxury cars outside the mansion.' The term can also describe behavior, as in 'His ostentatious behavior made him unpopular with his colleagues.' 'Ostentatious' is often used in idioms like 'all show and no substance,' 'put on airs,' and 'for show.'
