showy

1 of 2

adjective

showier; showiest
Synonyms of showynext
1
: making an attractive show : striking
a showy orchid
2
: given to or marked by a flashy often tasteless display
showily adverb
showiness noun

showiness

2 of 2

noun

show·​i·​ness ˈshōēnə̇s How to pronounce showiness (audio)
-ōin-
plural -es
: the quality or state of being showy
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

Adjective Perhaps you should wear something a little less showy. orchid plants are known for their huge showy flowers
Recent Examples on the Web
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Adjective
The 18-year-old followed that up with a showy performance at the World Championship and might be the most NHL-ready player in this draft. Eric Stephens, New York Times, 24 June 2026 Perfect for cutting and drying, the showy flower heads consist of white flowers packed onto pyramidal panicles. Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 24 June 2026 Their showy blooms come in a rainbow of colors and carry a subtle floral fragrance. Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 18 June 2026 Top picks include compact, showy varieties like Carex 'Everillo,' Little Bluestem, and Dwarf Fountain Grass. Cori Sears, The Spruce, 16 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for showy

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1697, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of showy was in 1697

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Showy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/showy. Accessed 25 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

showy

adjective
showier; showiest
1
: attracting attention : striking
showy blossoms
2
: given to or marked by much outward display : gaudy
showy jewelry
showily adverb
showiness noun

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