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

There’s more on the line than bragging rights.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 22, 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

Amen Thompson added 15 points, nine rebounds and seven assists for Houston -- gaining statistical bragging rights over his twin brother Ausar who scored 12 points with eight rebounds and three assists for Detroit.

From Barron's • Jan. 24, 2026

On Monday night, either Indiana or Miami will grab hold of college football’s ultimate bragging rights and call themselves national champions.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 18, 2026

It was the most feverish Friday night of the season: Odessa against Midland, the grudge game to settle bragging rights between the two towns for the next twelve months.

From "Friday Night Lights: A Town, A Team, And A Dream" by H.G. Bissinger