Boast Meaning and Definition
Boast
Pronunciation
/boʊst/
Part of Speech
Verb
Definition
Examples
- He loves to boast about his new sports car.
- She boasts about her high grades to anyone who will listen.
Synonyms
- Bray
- Crow
Antonyms
- Downplay
- Minimize
Additional Information
Boasting can be seen as a way to gain attention, admiration, or respect from others, but it can also be perceived as arrogant or insecure. In some cultures, boasting is considered a negative trait, while in others it’s seen as a way to showcase achievements.
In modern language, boasting often takes place on social media, where people share their accomplishments, possessions, or experiences to gain validation from their online audience.
The word “boast” comes from the Old English “bōstan”, which means “to make a loud noise”. This is derived from the Proto-Germanic “bōstiz”, which is related to the Proto-Indo-European “bhō-” meaning “to swell” or “to burst”. Throughout history, the meaning of “boast” has evolved to encompass the idea of speaking with pride or arrogance.
Usage Notes
In formal writing, boasting is often considered inappropriate or unprofessional. However, in informal conversations or social media, boasting is a common way to share achievements or experiences.
Cultural References
In ancient Greek mythology, the Muses would often boast about their achievements to the gods. In modern times, boasting has become a common trope in reality TV shows, where contestants often boast about their skills or accomplishments.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- To boast about something
- To boast of something
Related Words or Phrases
- Brag
- Show off
Collocations
- Boast about
- Boast of
Frequency of Use
The word “boast” is moderately common in modern language, with an average frequency of use in spoken and written English.
Common Misspellings
- Bost
- Boastt