OSTENTATIOUS Synonyms: 162 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'ostentatious' different from other adjectives like it?

The words pretentious and showy are common synonyms of ostentatious . While all three words mean "given to excessive outward display," ostentatious stresses vainglorious display or parade. // the ostentatious summer homes of the rich

Q: When is it sensible to use 'pretentious' instead of 'ostentatious'?

The synonyms pretentious and ostentatious are sometimes interchangeable, but pretentious implies an appearance of importance not justified by the thing's value or the person's standing. // a pretentious parade of hard words

Q: When could 'showy' be used to replace 'ostentatious'?

The words showy and ostentatious are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, showy implies an imposing or striking appearance but usually suggests cheapness or poor taste. // the performers' showy costumes

ostentatious

adjective

ˌä-stən-ˈtā-shəs

Definition of ostentatious next

as in loud

excessively showy wears an ostentatious diamond ring on his little finger

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in arrogant

self-consciously trying to present an appearance of grandeur or importance an ostentatious man who desperately wants to impress people with his newly acquired wealth

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word ostentatious different from other adjectives like it?

The words pretentious and showy are common synonyms of ostentatious. While all three words mean "given to excessive outward display," ostentatious stresses vainglorious display or parade.

the ostentatious summer homes of the rich

When is it sensible to use pretentious instead of ostentatious?

The synonyms pretentious and ostentatious are sometimes interchangeable, but pretentious implies an appearance of importance not justified by the thing's value or the person's standing.

a pretentious parade of hard words

When could showy be used to replace ostentatious?

The words showy and ostentatious are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, showy implies an imposing or striking appearance but usually suggests cheapness or poor taste.

the performers' showy costumes

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of ostentatious Where these collections once prioritized open-toed sandals and breezy silhouettes, more ostentatious and conceptual collections have instead followed suit. —

Alexandra Hildreth, Vogue, 27 Apr. 2026 Why does City Hall need to be so big and ostentatious? —

Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 19 Apr. 2026 Meticulous and never ostentatious, his work displays refined elegance, luxurious detailing, exacting craftsmanship, historical references, and a sumptuous materiality. —

Jennifer Baum Lagdameo, Architectural Digest, 10 Mar. 2026 Set to a jazzy score and shot on the streets, The Only Living Pickpocket in New York is filled with life, though not in an ostentatious, masquerading way. —

Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 19 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for ostentatious

Recent Examples of Synonyms for ostentatious

Adjective

The style is quintessential Deborah—strong, bold, a little loud, yet classy.

— Rachel Wallace, Architectural Digest, 29 May 2026
Like the Marrakech souks, Chatuchak is a full sensory experience of loud music, the smell of Thai street food and a buzzing, barter-friendly atmosphere.

— Hanna Wickes, Miami Herald, 29 May 2026