glitz
Americannoun
verb (used with object)
noun
Etymology
Origin of glitz
First recorded in 1975–80; back formation from glitzy
Explanation
Glitz is a cheap or gaudy flashiness. A sparkly, sequined dress that's really shiny but not very well made has glitz, but it may not be the most tasteful outfit for your grandparents' anniversary party. The decorating committee for a high school prom might be aiming for sophistication and end up with glitz, with spangles and glitter that's all a bit too much. If someone talks about the "glitz and glamour" of a party, the guests' clothes were probably pretty flashy. In Yiddish, glitz means "glitter," from the German root glitzern, "sparkle" or "glittering." In English, glitzy came first, probably influenced by the word ritzy.
Vocabulary lists containing glitz
Portmanteaus: Vocab Mash-Ups
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English Words Derived from Yiddish
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Mardi Gras: Fun
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
News that she has no regrets about walking away from the glitz and glamour, saying the decision was what was best for both her family and her mental health.
From MarketWatch • Jul. 7, 2026
In fact the former reality TV star will be front and center throughout the gore and glitz, as he always is.
From Barron's • Jun. 14, 2026
Despite the glitz and association with Musk, Baron has seen an exodus of investors as actively managed mutual funds fall out of favor.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 27, 2026
But that of course was in Texas, a long way from the polished glitz of Hollywood, and the same could be said of Gyllenhaal — at least metaphorically.
From Salon • May 27, 2026
Yet in its very portrayal, and in the lavish detail paid to its design, there was a certain false glitz, as though the entire exhibit were under a limelight.
From "The City Beautiful" by Aden Polydoros
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
