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

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

These charming cool-season flowers are known for their showy, delicate, papery blooms and exceptional vase life. —Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 13 Mar. 2026

These blooms are an African native called stinknet — an unflattering name for a showy flower — that have taken over Maricopa County and is knocking on the doors of others, such as Pima. —Shi En Kim, AZCentral.com, 13 Mar. 2026

Consider the outdoor elements as your design inspiration and aesthetic and let the cooking station be just that, functional, and practical, but not too showy. —Megan Johnson, Architectural Digest, 12 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