showy

adjective

ˈshō-ē 

showier; showiest

1

: making an attractive show : striking

a showy orchid

2

: given to or marked by a flashy often tasteless display

showily

ˈshō-ə-lē 

adverb

showiness

ˈshō-ē-nəs 

noun

Synonyms of showy

• noticeable
• prominent
• commanding
• dramatic
• remarkable
• impressive
• striking
• conspicuous

Choose the Right Synonym for 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

Examples of showy in a Sentence

Perhaps you should wear something a little less showy.

orchid plants are known for their huge showy flowers

Recent Examples on the Web

Noah is really careful about not having any performances in the show, like with showy moments. —Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 30 Mar. 2026

The heated in-ground pool and bluestone patio in the backyard sit naturally within the space, and the overall effect is more understated than showy. —Miriam Schwartz, Hartford Courant, 29 Mar. 2026

From a showy frittata to simple roasted asparagus, these dishes range from weeknight-friendly to dinner-party-ready—many of them can go both ways. —Zoe Denenberg, Bon Appetit Magazine, 29 Mar. 2026

They were modified, reproduced, and outfitted in showy décor, becoming a key way of getting around for working-class Filipinos. —ABC News, 23 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1697, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for showy

• chloe
• doughy
• joey
• lowy

Kids Definition

showy

adjective

ˈshō-ē 

showier; showiest

1

: attracting attention : striking

showy blossoms

2

: given to or marked by much outward display : gaudy

showy jewelry

showily

ˈshō-ə-lē 

adverb

showiness

ˈshō-ē-nəs 

noun