pomp

noun

ˈpämp 

1

: a show of magnificence : splendor

Every day begins … in a pomp of flaming colours …

—F. D. Ommanney

2

: a ceremonial or festival display (such as a train of followers or a pageant)

a dignitary treated with pomp and circumstance [=impressive formal activities or ceremonies]

3

a

: ostentatious display : vainglory

b

: an ostentatious gesture or act

Examples of pomp in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The traditional pomp and pageantry associated with the state opening of Parliament was overshadowed by the political intrigue, specifically the mounting speculation that Health Secretary Wes Streeting was planning to quit Starmer’s government and launch a leadership bid as soon as Thursday. —Pan Pylas, Fortune, 13 May 2026

Starmer appears to have seen off any immediate leadership challenge for now, and will hope that today’s pomp, pageantry and policy agenda can shift attention away from the current crisis. —Holly Ellyatt, CNBC, 13 May 2026

The Heat making a selection and then bypassing any post-pick pomp, knowing the selection is heading elsewhere as part of the type of trade that transforms the roster. —Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 13 May 2026

Jeremy Stempowiski, director of GAL, the shipping company that brought the Chrobry to Argentina, oversaw the welcome receptions, organizing them with as much pomp as possible. —Literary Hub, 11 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French pompe, from Latin pompa procession, pomp, from Greek pompē act of sending, escort, procession, pomp, from pempein to send

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for pomp

• comp
• pompe
• romp
• stomp
• swamp

Kids Definition

pomp

noun

ˈpämp 

1

: a show of magnificence : splendor

the pomp of a royal ceremony

2

: showy display