glitz

American  

[glits] / glɪts /

noun

1. ostentatious glitter or sophistication.

   a cocktail lounge noted for its glitz.

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verb (used with object)

1. to add a showy sophistication to (often followed byup ).

   They glitzed up the lobby with a couple of fountains and a birdcage.

glitz British  

/ ɡlɪts /

noun

1. slang ostentatious showiness; gaudiness or glitter

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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.

Example Sentences

“I look at L.A. and there is plenty of glitz and glamour to rally the donor class,” Boykoff said.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 24, 2026

They weren’t in town to hear Britney Spears, immerse themselves in the Strip’s glitz and glamour, or answer the siren call of the blackjack tables.

From Slate • Jan. 13, 2026

"Vienna will have all the glitz, the glamour, and the heart in the middle of the Eurovision logo -- but many will be asking if the heart of the show is still there."

From Barron's • Dec. 17, 2025

What else, I wondered, lay hidden in the glitz?

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 27, 2025

“Yep. That’s when we head to the set. Starring in a TV show isn’t all glitz and glamour. Okay, it’s mostly glitz and glamour, but you also have to wake up early.”

From "Dog Squad" by Chris Grabenstein

Related Words

• glamour