Tawdry: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe something that looks cheap and of low quality, often with a sense of being showy in a vulgar way. Typically, it has a negative connotation.

• Her jewelry was too tawdry to be part of a sophisticated ensemble
• The tawdry decorations made the event feel less formal

Used to describe something that is extravagantly bright or showy, often in a tasteless way. This has a negative connotation.

• The dress was gaudy, with too many sparkles and an overwhelming color
• The room was full of gaudy decorations that made it look cheap

Used when describing something designed to attract attention through bright colors or eye-catching details. It can be positive or negative depending on the context, often seen in fashion or cars.

• He bought a flashy sports car to show off his success
• The flashy display caught everyone's attention

Used to describe something designed to impress or attract notice, but in a way that is excessive or showy. It typically has a negative implication.

• His ostentatious display of wealth was off-putting
• The house was decorated in an ostentatious style, with gold accents everywhere

Used to describe something that is in poor taste or of low quality, often related to fashion or decoration. This also has a negative connotation.

• The tacky decorations ruined the fun of the party
• Wearing that tacky shirt to the formal event was a mistake

Used to describe something extremely bright, colorful, and often in bad taste. It almost always has a negative connotation.

• The garish colors of the billboard were hard to look at
• Her garish makeup made her look much older