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ostentatious

English → EnglishformalInstant · from the shared dictionary
Illustration of "ostentatious": Ostentatious describes something that is designed to impress others or attract attention, usually th

What does "ostentatious" mean?

Ostentatious describes something that is designed to impress others or attract attention, usually through excessive display of wealth, importance, or style. The mental image is of someone wearing oversized gold jewelry or driving a car that is far too flashy for the occasion, intentionally making sure everyone notices them. It is almost always used with a negative connotation, suggesting that the display is vulgar, pretentious, or lacking in good taste. It is commonly paired with nouns like "display," "lifestyle," or "wealth" to describe an unnecessary or over-the-top exhibition of resources.

"ostentatious" in conversation

Discussing a party

Did you see the table centerpieces? They were huge gold statues!

Did you see the table centerpieces? They were huge gold statues!

I know, it felt so ostentatious. A bit too much for a simple birthday, right?

I know, it felt so ostentatious. A bit too much for a simple birthday, right?

Used to criticize a display that feels excessive or garish.

Critiquing a house

The new mansion on the hill is absolutely massive.

The new mansion on the hill is absolutely massive.

It's a bit ostentatious for my taste. Who needs twenty bathrooms?

It's a bit ostentatious for my taste. Who needs twenty bathrooms?

Used to express that something is trying too hard to look expensive.

"ostentatious" in a sentence

  1. He wore an ostentatious ring on every finger.

    He wore an ostentatious ring on every finger.

  2. The company's ostentatious office building was criticized as a waste of shareholder money.

    The company's ostentatious office building was criticized as a waste of shareholder money.

  3. Despite his immense fortune, he avoided ostentatious displays of wealth, preferring a modest life.

    Despite his immense fortune, he avoided ostentatious displays of wealth, preferring a modest life.

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