bragging rights

American  

[brag-ing rahyts] / ˈbræg ɪŋ ˌraɪts /

plural noun

1. the presumed right to brag or boast, often associated with winning a contest of skill, as cooking or fishing.

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bragging rights British  

plural noun

1. notional privileges that are gained by defeating a close rival

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Etymology

Origin of bragging rights

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

bragging rights

They say they are mainly driven by the adrenaline rush, tradition and, of course, the bragging rights.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 21, 2026

Joining the fight for Premier League bragging rights are Manchester United, majority-owned by US family the Glazers and Chelsea, whose ownership group is headed by American Todd Boehly.

From Barron's ● Aug. 14, 2026

In turn that gave Musk — whether intentionally or coincidentally — bragging rights as a pioneering trillionaire.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 1, 2026

So being selected early isn’t just about bragging rights — it’s also a major financial windfall that can determine a player’s earnings for the next several years.

From MarketWatch ● Jun. 23, 2026

Of course for some Everesters myriad other, less virtuous, motives came into play, as well: minor celebrity, career advancement, ego massage, ordinary bragging rights, filthy lucre.

From "Into Thin Air" by Jon Krakauer