ostentatious

[ˌɒstenˈteɪʃəs]

ostentatious Definition

• 1. characterized by vulgar or pretentious display; designed to impress or attract notice
• 2. intended 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

• showy
• pretentious
• flashy
• extravagant
• ornate

Antonyms for ostentatious

• modest
• unassuming
• simple

Idioms Using ostentatious

• all show and no substance

  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.

• put on airs

  to behave in a way that suggests one is superior to others; to be pretentious

  Example

  She always puts on airs when she's around her wealthy friends.

• for show

  done to impress or deceive others rather than for any practical purpose

  Example

  The expensive artwork in the lobby was just for show; it had no real value to the company.

Phrases with ostentatious

• ostentatious display

  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.

• ostentatious gesture

  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.

• ostentatious lifestyle

  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'

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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.'