Ostentatiousness Meaning and Definition
Ostentatiousness
Pronunciation
/ˈɒstəntətɪvnɪs/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A quality of being showy or flashy, often in an attempt to impress others; conspicuous display of wealth, power, or status.
Examples
- The billionaire’s ostentatiousness was on full display at his lavish party.
- The celebrity’s new mansion was a symbol of their ostentatiousness.
Synonyms
- Ostentation
- Showiness
- Flashiness
Antonyms
- Modesty
- Understatement
- Humility
Additional Information
Ostentatiousness is often used to describe individuals who seek to impress others with their wealth, status, or power. This can manifest in various ways, such as through lavish spending, flashy clothing, or extravagant displays of material possessions. Ostentatiousness can be seen as a negative trait, as it can be perceived as arrogant or attention-seeking. However, it can also be a deliberate strategy used to intimidate or dominate others.
In some cultures, ostentatiousness is seen as a sign of success or achievement, while in others it is viewed as tacky or distasteful. Ultimately, the perception of ostentatiousness depends on the context and cultural norms.
Etymology
The word “ostentatiousness” comes from the Latin “ostentare,” meaning “to show” or “to display.”
Usage Notes
Ostentatiousness is often used to describe individuals or things that are overly showy or flashy. However, it can also be used to describe situations or behaviors that are intentionally attention-grabbing or provocative.
Cultural References
Ostentatiousness has been depicted in various forms of media, such as in films like “The Great Gatsby” or “Scarface,” where characters use their wealth and status to impress others.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “Flaunting one’s wealth”
- “Showing off”
Related Words or Phrases
- Ostentation
- Flashiness
- Pretentiousness
Collocations
- Ostentatious display
- Ostentatious behavior
- Ostentatious lifestyle
Frequency of Use
Ostentatiousness is a relatively uncommon word in modern language, but it is often used in formal or academic contexts to describe excessive displays of wealth or status.
Common Misspellings
- Ostentatiousnes
- Ostentatiousess
- Ostentatiousnous