ostentation

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a gaudy outward display
  2. noun lack of elegance as a consequence of being pompous and puffed up with vanity
  3. noun pretentious or showy or vulgar display

Etymology

Originated 1425–75 from late Middle English ostentacioun, borrowed from Middle French ostentation and its etymon Latin ostentātiō, ostentātiōnem, equivalent to ostentātus (past participle of ostentāre, to display or exhibit), frequentative of ostendere (“to present, display”) + -iōn. By surface analysis, ostent + -ation.

In classic literature

Synonyms

fanfare, flash

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