Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Flaunt Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ’ƒ
Add to dictionary

flaunt

[flษ”หnt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

show off

To flaunt means to display oneself ostentatiously or impudently, especially to provoke envy or admiration. It can also mean to parade oneself or one's possessions.

Synonyms

boast, display, exhibit, parade, show off.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
flaunt

Use flaunt when someone is showing off something in a way that is meant to attract attention and possibly make others feel envious. This usually has a negative connotation.

  • She likes to flaunt her designer clothes at parties.
  • He couldnโ€™t resist flaunting his new sports car to his friends.
show off

Show off is an informal term used when someone proudly displays something to gain admiration or envy, and it often has a negative connotation.

  • He always tries to show off his knowledge during meetings.
  • She loves to show off her cooking skills whenever guests come over.
display

Display is more neutral and formal, and it is used when something is shown to people, often for their admiration or inspection.

  • The museum will display ancient artifacts from Egypt.
  • She proudly displayed her award on the mantel.
boast

Boast is used when someone is talking about something they have done or own in a way that makes them sound proud, often excessively so. It can be seen as arrogant.

  • He boasted about his high scores in the game.
  • She can't meet new people without boasting about her family's wealth.
exhibit

Exhibit is used in formal contexts, often referring to objects shown to the public in places like museums or galleries.

  • The art gallery is exhibiting a collection of modern sculptures.
  • He decided to exhibit his paintings at the local fair.
parade

Parade is often used when showing off something in a very public and obvious way, similar to flaunting. It can suggest an ostentatious display.

  • She paraded her new diamond ring at the dinner party.
  • The football team paraded their trophy through the streets.

Examples of usage

  • She flaunted her expensive jewelry at the party.
  • He flaunted his wealth by driving around in a luxury car.
  • The celebrity flaunted her new hairstyle on social media.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

  • In contemporary culture, flaunting often appears in fashion, where individuals showcase bold styles to stand out.
  • Social media has amplified the concept of flaunting, with many users sharing luxurious lifestyles or possessions.
  • Flaunting is also common in art where artists express themselves and challenge norms by proudly displaying their unique perspectives.

Psychology

  • Studies indicate that flaunting can sometimes be a way to boost self-esteem or to gain social approval.
  • Psychologically, individuals may flaunt possessions as a means of establishing social status or dominance.
  • Excessive flaunting may lead to negative perceptions, as it can be viewed as arrogance in certain contexts.

Literature

  • In literature, flaunting is often used to develop characters who seek attention or validation from others.
  • Classic novels frequently explore themes of flaunting wealth or status as a reflection of societal values.
  • Poets may use metaphorical flaunting to convey deeper meanings about love, beauty, and the human experience.

History

  • Historically, flaunting has been associated with aristocratic classes who displayed wealth through clothing, art, and architecture.
  • Throughout different cultures, flaunting has played a role in rituals and ceremonies, showcasing community pride.
  • The Renaissance period emphasized self-expression, leading to an increase in flaunting artistic talent among painters and sculptors.

Origin of 'flaunt'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'flaunt' comes from the Middle English word 'flaunten', which means to wave or to flutter.
  • Originally, 'flaunt' was associated with the idea of showing off a flag or banner, indicating pride or celebration.
  • The word gained its current meaning related to boasting and displaying in the late 16th century.

The word 'flaunt' originated from the Old French word 'flaunter', which means 'to display'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century. Over time, 'flaunt' has come to be associated with showing off or displaying in a boastful manner.

See also: flaunting.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,484, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.