Synonyms of showy

showy

adjective

ˈshō-ē 

as in noticeable

likely to attract attention

orchid plants are known for their huge showy flowers

Synonyms & Similar Words

• noticeable
• prominent
• commanding
• dramatic
• remarkable
• impressive
• striking
• conspicuous
• marked
• flamboyant
• brilliant
• pronounced
• emphatic
• noisy
• interesting
• bold
• outstanding
• splashy
• loud
• eye-catching
• arresting
• visible
• catchy
• distinguished
• notable
• grabby
• recognizable
• bodacious
• noteworthy
• kenspeckle
• ornate
• gaudy
• discernible
• salient
• extravagant
• glaring
• flashy
• perceptible
• detectable
• highlighted
• fancy
• observable
• garish
• glitzy
• spectacular
• ostentatious
• tawdry
• eminent
• meretricious
• flagrant
• fascinating
• pretentious
• jazzy
• swank
• opulent
• screaming
• overwrought
• florid
• riveting
• enthralling
• engrossing
• absorbing
• glittery
• spotlighted
• overdone
• howling
• highfalutin

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• inconspicuous
• subtle
• unobtrusive
• unremarkable
• unnoticeable
• hidden
• obscure
• unshowy
• unemphatic
• concealed
• faint
• unimportant
• insignificant
• dim
• modest
• undistinguished
• shrouded
• unflamboyant
• simple
• unassuming
• plain
• unpretentious
• conservative
• quiet
• understated
• unaffected
• subdued
• restrained
• muted
• unflashy
• toned-down

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

Recent Examples of showy

The showy burgundy blooms attract a variety of pollinators, while yellow-orange fall foliage adds seasonal interest. — Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 25 Aug. 2026

Rather, the mission of Our Rescue, which used to be known as Operation Underground Railroad, is to save individuals from human-trafficking rings, often through showy sting operations. — Ruth Marcus, New Yorker, 15 Aug. 2026

Seline, a 14- to 17-course epicurean adventure told through seasonal and regional ingredients, innovative techniques and showy plating that makes use of bones, antlers and bowls within bowls, has been racking up accolades in 2026. — Carrie Bell, Forbes.com, 6 Aug. 2026

While not as showy or Instagram friendly, how Caminero has matured and improved overall at the plate actually may be more impressive. — Marc Topkin, The Orlando Sentinel, 5 Aug. 2026