pomp

noun

ˈpämp 

1

: a show of magnificence : splendor

every day begins … in a pomp of flaming colours

—F. D. Ommanney

2

: a ceremonial or festival display (such as a train of followers or a pageant)

3

a

: ostentatious display : vainglory

b

: an ostentatious gesture or act

Examples of pomp in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The cardinals' black and white umbrellas contrast with the velvet reds of their caps and sashes, emphasizing the pomp and solemnity of their purpose, while also reinforcing an air of mystery. —Maureen Lee Lenker, EW.com, 2 Sep. 2024

There was not much pomp and ceremony to Saturday being the last show of the residency… and possibly the last of Dead & Company’s career, if only to the extent that any show can be the last of a band’s career. —Chris Willman, Variety, 12 Aug. 2024

In a parade of nations filled with pomp and pageantry, competitors, coaches and organizers will celebrate two weeks of athletic excellence. —Leonard Greene, New York Daily News, 10 Aug. 2024

Best Restaurants Mistral The fine-dining venue of Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni has an overwhelmingly romantic setting, plenty of pomp and presentation, elaborate platings, and prices to match. —Elizabeth Heath, Travel + Leisure, 22 July 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French pompe, from Latin pompa procession, pomp, from Greek pompē act of sending, escort, procession, pomp, from pempein to send

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing pomp

• pomp and circumstance

Kids Definition

pomp

noun

ˈpämp 

1

: a show of magnificence : splendor

the pomp of a royal ceremony

2

: showy display