Poppinjay: meaning, definitions and examples
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poppinjay
[ ˈpɒpɪnˌdʒeɪ ]
offensive arrogance
A poppinjay is a person who is vain, showy, and often boastful, typically flaunting their wealth or importance. This term carries a negative connotation, suggesting that the individual seeks attention through ostentatious behavior.
Synonyms
braggart, dandy, fop, peacock.
Examples of usage
- He strutted around like a poppinjay, flaunting his expensive suit.
- The celebrity was known as a poppinjay, always seeking the limelight.
- Her poppinjay persona made it difficult for her to make genuine friends.
Translations
Translations of the word "poppinjay" in other languages:
🇵🇹 pavão
🇮🇳 पॉपिंजाय
🇩🇪 Schwätzer
🇮🇩 pembual
🇺🇦 балакун
🇵🇱 gaduła
🇯🇵 おしゃべり
🇫🇷 bavard
🇪🇸 charlatán
🇹🇷 geveze
🇰🇷 수다쟁이
🇸🇦 ثرثار
🇨🇿 kecal
🇸🇰 kecal
🇨🇳 话多的人
🇸🇮 klepetal
🇮🇸 málkur
🇰🇿 сөзқұмар
🇬🇪 გადატრიალებული
🇦🇿 boşboğaz
🇲🇽 charlatán
Etymology
The word 'poppinjay' originated in the early 17th century, deriving from the combination of 'pop,' a word that suggests a puffing or ostentatious display, and the syllable 'jay,' which is likely a reference to a colorful bird. The term initially referred to a parrot or any talking bird, which was considered a symbol of vanity due to its loud colors and mimicry. Over the years, the meaning shifted from referring to flamboyant birds to describing individuals who showcase excessive pride or arrogance. It is often used in a derisive context to depict someone who draws attention to themselves in an exaggerated manner, much like a peacock displays its feathers.