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Ostentation: meaning, definitions and examples

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ostentation

 

[ˌɒs.tenˈteɪ.ʃən ]

Definition

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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ostentation

Use 'ostentation' to describe an excessive display of wealth or luxury that is intended to attract notice or impress others. Often, the term has a negative connotation.

  • His ostentation was evident from the gold-plated car he drove.
  • The mansion was filled with ostentation, which made many guests uncomfortable.
showiness

Use 'showiness' to describe a flashy display meant to attract attention, often implying a lack of depth or substance. This term can carry a negative connotation.

  • The showiness of the new sports car didn't impress him; he preferred something more practical.
  • Her showiness at the party made people think she was trying too hard to be the center of attention.
flamboyance

Use 'flamboyance' to describe a confident, lively, and colorful display of personality or style. This term is usually more positive and implies boldness and flair.

  • His flamboyance on stage made him a favorite among the audience.
  • She was known for her flamboyance, always wearing bright colors and unique accessories.
extravagance

Use 'extravagance' to describe spending money or resources in a way that is more than necessary, often implying wastefulness or lack of restraint. It can have a negative connotation.

  • Her extravagance was clear from the dozens of designer shoes she owned.
  • They criticized the government's extravagance in spending public funds on unnecessary projects.

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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin term 'ostentatio,' which means 'display' or 'showing off.'
  • It has been used in the English language since the 15th century, describing extravagant displays of wealth.
  • In literature, it has often carried a negative connotation, suggesting arrogance or superficiality.

Culture

  • Many cultures have practices that reflect ostentation, such as extravagant weddings or lavish parties to showcase wealth.
  • Social media has amplified ostentation, with many using platforms to display luxurious lifestyles or possessions.
  • Looking at fashion, ostentation can be seen in haute couture, where outfits are designed to turn heads rather than for practical wear.

Psychology

  • Psychologists suggest that ostentation can signal an individual's desire for social status and validation from peers.
  • Excessive display often correlates with insecurity, where individuals want to prove their worth through material possessions.
  • Studies show that witnessing ostentation can lead to resentment or envy in others, impacting social dynamics.

Literature

  • Classic novels often critique ostentation, showcasing how it can lead to personal downfall, like in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s 'The Great Gatsby.'
  • In Shakespeare’s works, characters displaying ostentatious traits often face dramatic consequences, highlighting moral lessons.
  • Modern literature continues to explore themes of materialism and the emptiness behind ostentatious displays of wealth.

Economics

  • Displaying wealth through ostentation can affect market trends, especially in luxury goods, as people often buy to showcase status.
  • Ostentatious consumption is a trend where spending is more about impressing others than about the goods themselves.
  • Economists debate the social impacts of ostentation; while it can drive luxury markets, it can also create divides between social classes.

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 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.