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Ostentation: meaning, definitions and examples

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ostentation

 

[ ˌɒs.tenˈteɪ.ʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

showing off wealth or status

Ostentation refers to the act of displaying one's wealth or status in a flamboyant or excessive manner, often with the intention of impressing others. It involves showcasing expensive possessions, extravagant clothing, or lavish lifestyle choices.

Synonyms

extravagance, flamboyance, showiness

Examples of usage

  • Her ostentation was evident in the way she flaunted her designer handbags and luxury cars.
  • The ostentation of the mansion, with its marble floors and golden chandeliers, was an indication of the owner's extravagant lifestyle.
  • Despite his ostentation, many people saw through his facade and realized that true wealth was not measured by material possessions.
  • His ostentatious display of wealth only served to alienate him from those who valued humility and simplicity.
  • The ostentation at the gala event was overwhelming, with guests adorned in jewels and designer gowns.

Translations

Translations of the word "ostentation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ostentação

🇮🇳 आडंबर

🇩🇪 Prahlerei

🇮🇩 pamer

🇺🇦 показуха

🇵🇱 ostentacja

🇯🇵 見せびらかし

🇫🇷 ostentation

🇪🇸 ostentación

🇹🇷 gösteriş

🇰🇷 과시

🇸🇦 تباهى

🇨🇿 okázalost

🇸🇰 okázalosť

🇨🇳 炫耀

🇸🇮 razkazovanje

🇮🇸 grobb

🇰🇿 мақтаншақтық

🇬🇪 საჩვენებელი

🇦🇿 göstəriş

🇲🇽 ostentación

Word origin

The word 'ostentation' has its origins in the Latin word 'ostentatio', which means 'a showing' or 'display'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century, during a period when displays of wealth and status were highly valued. The concept of ostentation has been a subject of critique in various societies, with some viewing it as a shallow and superficial way of seeking validation. Over time, the word has retained its negative connotations, often associated with pretentious displays of material wealth.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,807, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.