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

• noticeable
• prominent
• dramatic
• commanding
• 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

For houseplant lovers looking to upgrade from a classic Monstera deliciosa, 'Esqueleto' is just as showy and impressive, with even more dramatic leaves. —Andrea Beck, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Oct. 2025

With showy wine-red blossoms that perfume the garden with the distinctive aromas of chocolate and vanilla from mid-summer through fall, chocolate cosmos entices butterflies and curious gardeners alike. —Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 3 Oct. 2025

Johnson’s performance is humble rather than showy, an impressive feat of control and restraint. —Richard Lawson, Rolling Stone, 1 Oct. 2025

Burnett cackled and let out a showy sigh. —Rachel Syme, New Yorker, 29 Sep. 2025

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