showy

showy

adj \ˈshō-ē\

show·i·ershow·i·est

Definition of SHOWY

1

: making an attractive show : striking <a showy orchid>

2

: given to or marked by a flashy often tasteless display

— show·i·ly \ˈshō-ə-lē\ adverb

— show·i·ness \ˈshō-ē-nəs\ noun

Examples of SHOWY

1. Perhaps you should wear something a little less showy.
2. <orchid plants are known for their huge showy flowers>

First Known Use of SHOWY

1709

Related to SHOWY

Synonyms: arresting, bodacious, bold, brilliant, catchy, commanding, conspicuous, dramatic, emphatic, eye-catching, flamboyant, grabby, kenspeckle [chiefly Scottish], marked, noisy, prominent, pronounced, remarkable, noticeable, splashy, striking

Antonyms: inconspicuous, unemphatic, unflamboyant, unnoticeable, unobtrusive, unremarkable, unshowy

Related Words: detectable, discernible (also discernable), observable, perceptible, recognizable, visible; outstanding, salient; distinguished, eminent, impressive, notable, noteworthy; highlighted, spotlighted; flagrant, glaring, howling, screaming; flashy, garish, gaudy, glitzy, jazzy, loud, meretricious, swank (or swanky), tawdry; highfalutin (also hifalutin), ostentatious, pretentious; extravagant, fancy, florid, glittery, spectacular; opulent, ornate, overdone, overwrought; absorbing, engrossing, enthralling, fascinating, interesting, riveting

Near Antonyms: subtle; concealed, hidden, shrouded; dim, faint, obscure; insignificant, undistinguished, unimportant; modest, unaffected, unassuming, unpretentious; conservative, plain, quiet, simple, understated; muted, restrained, subdued, subtle, toned-down, unflashy

[+]more[-]hide

Synonym Discussion of SHOWY

showy, pretentious, ostentatious mean given to excessive outward display. showy implies an imposing or striking appearance but usually suggests cheapness or poor taste <the performers' showy costumes>. pretentious implies an appearance of importance not justified by the thing's value or the person's standing <a pretentious parade of hard words>. ostentatious stresses vainglorious display or parade <the ostentatious summer homes of the rich>.

Rhymes with SHOWY

blowy, Chloe, doughy, joey, snowy