Dictionary
showy
adjective \ˈshō-ē\
: having an appearance that attracts attention
show·i·ershow·i·est
Full Definition of SHOWY
1
: making an attractive show : striking <a showy orchid>
2
: given to or marked by a flashy often tasteless display
— show·i·ly \ˈshō-ə-lē\ adverb
— show·i·ness \ˈshō-ē-nəs\ noun
See showy defined for English-language learners
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First Known Use of SHOWY
1709
Related to SHOWY
- Synonyms
- arresting, bodacious, bold, brilliant, catchy, commanding, conspicuous, dramatic, emphatic, eye-catching, flamboyant, grabby, kenspeckle [chiefly Scottish], marked, noisy, prominent, pronounced, remarkable, noticeable, splashy, striking
- Antonyms
- inconspicuous, unemphatic, unflamboyant, unnoticeable, unobtrusive, unremarkable, unshowy
Synonym Discussion of SHOWY
showy, pretentious, ostentatious mean given to excessive outward display. showy implies an imposing or striking appearance but usually suggests cheapness or poor taste <the performers' showy costumes>. pretentious implies an appearance of importance not justified by the thing's value or the person's standing <a pretentious parade of hard words>. ostentatious stresses vainglorious display or parade <the ostentatious summer homes of the rich>.
SHOWY Defined for Kids
showy
adjective \ˈshō-ē\
show·i·ershow·i·est
Definition of SHOWY for Kids
1
: attracting attention : striking <showy flower blossoms>
2
: given to or being too much outward display : gaudy <showy jewelry>
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