show-off

Also showoff

[shoh-awf, -of]

noun

1. a person given to pretentious display.

   Synonyms: braggart, exhibitionist

2. the act of showing off.

show off

verb

1. (tr) to exhibit or display so as to invite admiration

2. informal,  (intr) to behave in such a manner as to make an impression

noun

1. informal,  a person who makes a vain display of himself

Other Word Forms

• show-offish adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of show off¹

First recorded in 1770–80; noun use of verb phrase show off

Idioms and Phrases

Display in an ostentatious, conspicuous way; also, seek attention by displaying one's accomplishments, abilities, or possessions. For example, I'm wearing shorts to show off my Florida tan, or Karen loved showing off her new baby to her friends, or There's no need to show off, Fred; we all know you're a good dancer. [Early 1800s]

Example Sentences

And the weaponry that he showed off on Wednesday, much of which emphasised China's naval capabilities, is bound to worry Taiwanese leaders.

From BBC

China also showed off its stealth attack drones, dubbed the "loyal wingman", as they are capable of flying alongside a manned fighter jet and aid it in its attacks.

From BBC

"They can show off these flashy advanced platforms, but are they organisationally agile to use them in the way they want to?"

From BBC

To show off his band, Yankovic drops the funny stuff at one point in each show, covering a classic song and playing it straight.

From Los Angeles Times

Wes texted me that he was excited to show off his salsa skills.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• brag 
• flaunt