Word of the Day

: June 10, 2009

flamboyant

adjective flam-BOY-ant

What It Means

1 : characterized by waving curves suggesting flames

2 : marked by or given to strikingly elaborate or colorful display or behavior

flamboyant in Context

The circus performers were easily identifiable by their flamboyant costumes and stage makeup.

Did You Know?

If you've ever heard of a dessert served flambé, you already have some insight into the origins of today's word. "Flamboyant," which was borrowed into English from French in the 19th century, can be traced back to Old French "flambe," meaning "flame." In its earliest uses "flamboyant" referred to a style of architecture, often in the florid French Gothic style, which featured waving curves that suggested flames. Eventually, the word developed a more general second sense for anything eye-catching or showy. As you have no doubt guessed, Old French "flambe" is also the origin of the English adjective "flambé."