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

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

“He’s really interested in the bragging rights of the moment,” said Michael Scherer, a journalist at the Atlantic.

From Slate • May 7, 2026

Now, no matter what happens, Liverpool will always have the bragging rights of the first derby at the Hill Dickinson.

From BBC • Apr. 19, 2026

Videos ranking the best players of specific games show that bragging rights accrue long after the achievement itself.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 15, 2026

“If I don’t come back, you have my permission to add my moonstone badge to your VanQuish collection. Think about the bragging rights you’ll have at the next convention.”

From "Amari and the Night Brothers" by B.B. Alston