fuss and feathers

noun

1. an excessively elaborate or pretentious display; ostentation.

Word History and Origins

Origin of fuss and feathers¹

First recorded in 1890–95

Idioms and Phrases

Needless commotion and display, as in There was so much fuss and feathers over the award ceremony that I decided not to attend. This expression probably survives because of its appealing alliteration. [Mid-1800s]

Example Sentences

“I don’t like fuss and feathers.”

From Literature

Tomorrow I shall put away my ‘fuss and feathers’ and be desperately good again,” she answered with an affected little laugh.

From Literature

At her first ball, eldest sister Meg borrows a low-cut, sugar-pink dress from a rich friend — a disguise of finery that works until she encounters Laurie, her childhood friend and neighbor, who tells her he hates the dress for its “fuss and feathers.”

From Los Angeles Times

The general was known as “Old Fuss and Feathers” because of his dedication to discipline and pomp.

From Washington Post

The beauty of this sweeping movie lies not only in the acting, though we could save fuss and feathers and give Cumberbatch the Oscar right now.

From US News