SHOWINESSES Synonyms: 158 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'showy' different from other adjectives like it?

The words ostentatious and pretentious are common synonyms of showy . While all three words mean "given to excessive outward display," showy implies an imposing or striking appearance but usually suggests cheapness or poor taste. // the performers' showy costumes

Q: When might 'ostentatious' be a better fit than 'showy'?

In some situations, the words ostentatious and showy are roughly equivalent. However, ostentatious stresses vainglorious display or parade. // the ostentatious summer homes of the rich

Q: When can 'pretentious' be used instead of 'showy'?

The synonyms pretentious and showy are sometimes interchangeable, but pretentious implies an appearance of importance not justified by the thing's value or the person's standing. // a pretentious parade of hard words

showiness 1 of 2

noun

Definition of showiness next

as in ostentation

excessive or unnecessary display we were somewhat put off by the saber-rattling showiness of the military parade

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

showy

2 of 2

adjective

ˈshō-ē

as in noticeable

likely to attract attention orchid plants are known for their huge showy flowers

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word showy different from other adjectives like it?

The words ostentatious and pretentious are common synonyms of showy. While all three words mean "given to excessive outward display," showy implies an imposing or striking appearance but usually suggests cheapness or poor taste.

the performers' showy costumes

When might ostentatious be a better fit than showy?

In some situations, the words ostentatious and showy are roughly equivalent. However, ostentatious stresses vainglorious display or parade.

the ostentatious summer homes of the rich

When can pretentious be used instead of showy?

The synonyms pretentious and showy are sometimes interchangeable, but pretentious implies an appearance of importance not justified by the thing's value or the person's standing.

a pretentious parade of hard words

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 showiness

Noun

Garcia’s finest new dishes underscore his talent for complexity that bypasses showiness. —

Bill Addison, Los Angeles Times, 29 Jan. 2026 Still, that showiness in dialogue is latched to a shallowness of characterization. —

Jackson McHenry, Vulture, 29 Jan. 2026

Adjective

True lilies include showy varieties such as Easter, tiger, and Oriental lilies. —

Encyclopedia Britannica, 15 May 2026 Undoubtedly, the main draw for this dress is the twisted, low back which tastefully showed off my tan without looking too showy. —

Izzy Baskette, PEOPLE, 15 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for showiness

Recent Examples of Synonyms for showiness

Noun

The atmosphere aligns with the philosophy: no ostentation, no grand production.

— Bill Addison, Los Angeles Times, 12 Mar. 2026
The mansion, often considered a monument to Roaring ‘20s ostentation, stretches from the Intracoastal to the Atlantic Ocean.

— Miami Herald Archives, Miami Herald, 22 Feb. 2026