Swanking Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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swanking
[ˈswæŋkɪŋ ]
Definition
showing off
Swanking refers to the act of behaving or speaking in a way that is intended to impress others. It often involves boasting about one's achievements or possessions and can appear arrogant or ostentatious. This term highlights the desire for attention and admiration from others. People who are swanking may use flashy clothing, grand gestures, or elaborate stories to draw attention to themselves.
Synonyms
bragging, ostentatious, vaunting.
Examples of usage
- He was swanking about his new car at the party.
- She couldn't help swanking in front of her friends about her recent promotion.
- They spent the night swanking around town, showing off their wealth.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- The term 'swank' was famously popularized in the 1950s through literature and films that depicted a luxurious lifestyle.
- In modern culture, 'swank' appears in fashion magazines and social media, often describing extravagant styles or behaviors.
- The TV show 'The Great Gatsby' adaptation displayed characters that were often swanking, embodying the lavish lifestyles of the 1920s.
Psychology
- Showing off, or swanking, can be linked to a need for validation and recognition from peers.
- People who frequently display swanking behavior may have underlying insecurities that drive them to seek attention.
- Research in social behavior suggests that swanking might work in winning social acceptance but may also lead to resentment from others.
Literature
- In literature, characters who engage in swanking are often portrayed as superficial or materialistic, serving as a critique of societal values.
- Classic novels often feature swanking characters who symbolize the excesses of wealth and status, illustrating moral lessons.
- Contemporary authors frequently utilize swanking as a motif to explore themes of identity and self-worth related to appearance.
Origin of 'swanking'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'swank' originated in the 19th century, possibly from a Scottish dialect meaning 'to swagger' or 'to strut'.
- It may also be linked to the word 'swankey', which described a person who is overly flashy or showy.
- In the late 1800s, 'swank' began being used to describe ostentatious behavior, especially in fashionable circles.
The term 'swank' originated in the mid-19th century, derived from the Scottish word 'swankie', which means 'a swaggering, showy person.' Over time, the word evolved and entered common usage as a verb, signifying the act of displaying oneself in a showy manner. The idea behind swanking is linked to social status and the desire to be seen as superior or more fashionable than others. It reflects cultural attitudes towards wealth and success, often critiqued for its ostentation. The word has maintained its connotation of arrogance and showiness throughout its history, frequently used in contexts that emphasize superficiality over substance.