Vaunt Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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vaunt

[vษ”หnt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

self-praise

To boast about or praise oneself excessively or extravagantly.

Synonyms

boast, brag, exaggerate, flaunt.

Examples of usage

  • He vaunted his athletic achievements to anyone who would listen.
  • She constantly vaunted her intelligence in front of her classmates.
  • The politician vaunted his accomplishments during the campaign.
  • They vaunted their wealth and possessions at every opportunity.
Context #2 | Noun

obsolete

An instance of vaunting; a boast or brag.

Synonyms

boast, brag, exaggeration.

Examples of usage

  • His vaunts about his wealth were met with skepticism.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Literature

  • The term appears in classic literature, including works by Shakespeare, where characters use it to express pride.
  • In 'Paradise Lost', Milton uses the concept of vaunting to highlight the hubris of characters, adding depth to their flaws.
  • Many poets have employed the word in their verses to convey themes of arrogance and self-importance.

Pop Culture

  • The term frequently appears in social media culture, where individuals vaunt their lifestyle or accomplishments.
  • Vaunting has become a part of the influencer landscape, where sharing personal achievements is common.
  • TV shows often create characters that vaunt to illustrate the pitfalls of excessive pride.

Psychology

  • Psychologists suggest that those who vaunt might be seeking validation or support for their self-worth.
  • Excessive vaunting can be related to insecurity, as individuals may feel the need to prove their value to others.
  • The act of boasting has been studied in the context of social dynamics, showing how it can affect interpersonal relationships.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers examine vaunting through the lens of humility, contrasting prideful boasting with the virtue of modesty.
  • The ethical implications of vaunting are often discussed in terms of authenticity and self-presentation.
  • In many philosophical traditions, excessive vaunting is seen as a vice that can lead to downfalls.

Origin of 'vaunt'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Middle English 'vaunten' which traces back to the Old French 'avunter', meaning to boast.
  • Its roots can be found in the Latin word 'vanitare', which means 'to boast'.
  • The evolution of its meaning reflects a long history of human pride and boasting.

The word 'vaunt' comes from Middle English vaunten, from Old French vanter, from late Latin vanitare, frequentative of Latin vanare 'to discuss emptily or vainly.' The sense of 'boast' or 'praise oneself' dates back to the late 16th century.


See also: vaunting.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,690 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.