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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

Etymology

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.