pomp

[pomp]

noun

1. stately or splendid display; splendor; magnificence.

2. ostentatious or vain display, especially of dignity or importance.

3. pomps, pompous displays, actions, or things.

   The official was accompanied by all the pomps of his high position.

4. Archaic.,  a stately or splendid procession; pageant.

pomp

/ pɒmp /

noun

1. stately or magnificent display; ceremonial splendour

2. vain display, esp of dignity or importance

3. obsolete,  a procession or pageant

Other Word Forms

• pompless adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of pomp¹

1275–1325; Middle English < Latin pompa display, parade, procession < Greek pompḗ originally, a sending, akin to pémpein to send

Word History and Origins

Origin of pomp¹

C14: from Old French pompe, from Latin pompa procession, from Greek pompē; related to Greek pompein to send

Example Sentences

It is his second state visit to the UK and is accompanied by the usual pomp and pageantry.

From BBC

The aim will be to dazzle and flatter him with the ultimate red-carpet experience, with guards of honour, flypasts, historic carriages, a lavish banquet, pomp and pageantry.

From BBC

The state visit was all about to unfold in its pomp and glory.

From BBC

The contest lacked the electricity of Roland Garros and the pomp of Wimbledon, but their duel was yet another illustration of how far ahead their level is of the rest of the field.

From BBC

Unlike today, the welcome at the airport was understated, devoid of the pomp and circumstance NFL players now receive.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• fanfare 
• formality 
• grandeur 
• solemnity 
• splendor 

When To Use

What are other ways to say pomp?

Pomp refers to stately or splendid display, or to display that is ostentatious or vain. When should you use pomp over show, display, or ostentation? Find out on Thesaurus.com.