coxcombry

American  

[koks-kohm-ree] / ˈkɒksˌkoʊm ri /

noun

plural

coxcombries

1. the manners or behavior of a coxcomb.

2. a foppish trait.

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coxcombry British  

/ ˈkɒksˌkəʊmrɪ /

noun

1. conceited arrogance or foppishness

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Etymology

Origin of coxcombry

First recorded in 1600–10; coxcomb + -ry

Example Sentences

Such abuse of rhythm is sure to savour of coxcombry and petty affectation, and grows tiresome in the highest degree by a monotonous sameness of tone.

From On the Sublime by Havell, H. L. (Herbert Lord)

At the south, gentlemen, without the charge of coxcombry or effeminacy, wear them in the button-holes of their vests—fair girls wreathe them in their hair, and children trudge to school loaded with bouquets.

From The South-West By a Yankee. In Two Volumes. Volume 2 by Ingraham, Jonathon Holt

But I assure you, Baroness Stella, that Edgar has not a trace of such nonsensical coxcombry.

From Erlach Court by Schubin, Ossip

There is a class of Scottish ministers in the present day, who, though they detest show and coxcombry, have yet a very decided leaning to the picturesque ceremonies of the Episcopal Church.

From Leading Articles on Various Subjects by Davidson, John

It is really laughable to think of the coxcombry which eminent men of letters have displayed in connection with their powers—real or fancied—in this art.

From The Uncollected Writings of Thomas de Quincey—Vol. 1 With a Preface and Annotations by James Hogg by Hogg, James