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Definition of ostentation

ostentation

/ˌɑːstənˈteɪʃən/
os · ten · ta · tion
Adverb:ostentatiously
•
Plural:ostentations
•
Adjective:ostentatious
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ostentation Lexical Profile

ostentation Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A pretentious, vulgar, or overly showy display of wealth, knowledge, or possessions intended to impress others or attract notice.

Example

"Despite his immense fortune, he lived in a modest cottage and avoided any form of ostentation."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for ostentation
Antonyms
View all antonyms for ostentation

• Rhymes for ostentation

• Nearby Words

osprey falls
osso buco
ostensibly
ostentation
ostentatious
ostentatiously
osteoglossum

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late Middle English period from Old French or directly from Latin 'ostentatio' (a vain display), derived from 'ostentare' (to display or show off), the frequentative form of 'ostendere' (to stretch out to view, from 'ob-' meaning 'in front of' and 'tendere' meaning 'to stretch').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Ostentation. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/ostentation
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