FUSTIAN Synonyms: 74 Similar and Opposite Words

fustian 1 of 2

adjective

Definition of fustian

as in rhetorical

marked by the use of impressive-sounding but mostly meaningless words and phrases one of those fustian odes to patriotic duty that were so beloved by school teachers

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fustian

2 of 2

noun

ˈfəs-chən

as in rhetoric

language that is impressive-sounding but not meaningful or sincere a speech awash in old-fashioned fustian and bereft of all substance

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Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for fustian

Adjective

His prose is noted for its rhetorical, exuberant style and use of satire.

— Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 30 Oct. 2026
Eisenkot lacks Netanyahu’s rhetorical flair, polished English, and decades on the world stage.

— Eric Cortellessa, Time, 25 Oct. 2026

Definition of rhetorical

Noun

Meanwhile, Rodríguez is already signaling an interest in working with Washington, despite some of her public rhetoric, tapping former opposition aide Oliver Blanco as foreign minister.

— Shelby Talcott, semafor.com, 2 Nov. 2026
The schmaltzy rhetoric around nearly all of the works evidences a great desire for purpose, meaning, even dogma, but such things do not tend to emerge from entertainment or leisure practices so much as from constraint and necessity.

— Kristian Vistrup Madsen, Artforum, 1 Nov. 2026

Definition of rhetoric

Adjective

As part of the scheme, prosecutors allege, Heflin conspired with other companies and individuals to predetermine who would win certain business, at times submitting intentionally inflated bids to schools.

— Daniel Libit, Sportico.com, 27 Oct. 2026
As retailers roll out seasonal promotions across clothing, appliances and electronics, inflated reference prices and limited-time pressure can turn a modest discount into something that feels like a steal.

— Ashley Lynch, Kansas City Star, 27 Oct. 2026

Definition of inflated

Adjective

In another decree published Monday, Leo canceled Francis’ plans to move some of the Vatican’s secret archives and library holdings out of the city state and onto the grounds of a pontifical university across town.

— Nicole Winfield, Los Angeles Times, 14 Sep. 2026
Leo opened his visit to Pompeii by meeting with sick and disabled people who are cared for by a charity center affiliated with the sanctuary, which Leo’s namesake, Pope Leo XIII, declared a pontifical basilica in 1901.

— ABC News, ABC News, 8 May 2026

Definition of pontifical

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fussy

fustian

fustigate

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“Fustian.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fustian. Accessed 9 Nov. 2026.

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Synonyms of fustian

adjective

noun

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