Definition of flagrantnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective flagrant differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of flagrant are glaring, gross, and rank. While all these words mean "conspicuously bad or objectionable," flagrant applies usually to offenses or errors so bad that they can neither escape notice nor be condoned.

flagrant abuse of the office of president

In what contexts can glaring take the place of flagrant?

The synonyms glaring and flagrant are sometimes interchangeable, but glaring implies painful or damaging obtrusiveness of something that is conspicuously wrong, faulty, or improper.

glaring errors

Where would gross be a reasonable alternative to flagrant?

The words gross and flagrant can be used in similar contexts, but gross implies the exceeding of reasonable or excusable limits.

gross carelessness

When could rank be used to replace flagrant?

The words rank and flagrant are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, rank applies to what is openly and extremely objectionable and utterly condemned.

rank heresy

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of flagrant Congress is a hive of low-character performance, full of individuals who have supplanted their responsibilities to the Constitution and the public interest with flagrant careerism. Business Columnist, Los Angeles Times, 19 Feb. 2026 Only upon Gates’ appeal of the initial foul call was the infraction upgraded to a flagrant 1 offense. Kansas City Star, 19 Feb. 2026 Powell was automatically ejected for the flagrant 2 foul. ABC News, 15 Feb. 2026 On the Indiana native’s watch, flagrant racial discrimination in American Legion baseball occurred three times. Bill Swank, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for flagrant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for flagrant
Adjective
  • The blatant corruption and self-dealing must end.
    Voice of the People, New York Daily News, 21 Feb. 2026
  • The players are fully aware that their performance at Girona was below par, which is a big reason why nobody wanted to complain too much about the refereeing in the game — despite the controversy around that tackle on Kounde, which was seen by the Barca players as a blatant foul.
    Pol Ballús, New York Times, 17 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Multiple teams began using the feedback to improve areas that players had highlighted as glaring weaknesses.
    Nicki Jhabvala, New York Times, 26 Feb. 2026
  • Founded by sisters Miko and Titi Branch, the Black‑owned brand helped fill a glaring gap in the market for products that actually understand curly, coily, and textured hair.
    Kieaundria Bellamy, InStyle, 21 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • The hoarding expert suggested that people may not be checking the most obvious spots in their homes for hidden fortunes.
    Stephanie Giang-Paunon, FOXNews.com, 21 Feb. 2026
  • As a performance artist and musician, Ono has always tried to expose the depth contained within the apparently obvious.
    Sadie Sartini Garner, Pitchfork, 21 Feb. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Podcast

Cite this Entry

“Flagrant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/flagrant. Accessed 1 Mar. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on flagrant

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster