pomp

American  

[pomp] / pɒmp /

noun

1. stately or splendid display; splendor; magnificence.

2. ostentatious or vain display, especially of dignity or importance.

3. pomps, pompous displays, actions, or things.

   The official was accompanied by all the pomps of his high position.

4. Archaic. a stately or splendid procession; pageant.

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pomp British  

/ pɒmp /

noun

1. stately or magnificent display; ceremonial splendour

2. vain display, esp of dignity or importance

3. obsolete a procession or pageant

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Usage

What are other ways to say pomp?

Pomp refers to stately or splendid display, or to display that is ostentatious or vain. When should you use pomp over show, display, or ostentation? Find out on Thesaurus.com.

Other Word Forms

• pompless adjective

Etymology

Origin of pomp

1275–1325; Middle English < Latin pompa display, parade, procession < Greek pompḗ originally, a sending, akin to pémpein to send

Example Sentences

Behind the pomp and glitter, each school chooses an annual theme, often linked to Afro-Brazilian heritage, social or political commentary, mythology and environmental issues.

From Barron's

Performing in the top ranks now costs millions of dollars, which schools put towards towering floats, dazzling crystal and feather-covered outfits, and the pomp that make the parade a global attraction.

From Barron's

State visits are considered a form of soft-power diplomacy, using the pomp of royal hospitality to strengthen relations with important international partners.

From BBC

A black, polished sliding door delivers you into a reception room whose pomp is disciplined by marble piers, dark patinated-bronze framing panels, and—most memorably—walls sheathed in gold mosaic and red marble.

From The Wall Street Journal

Monfils, now ranked 110 but who rose to six in the world in his pomp, looked to be struggling physically in glaring sunshine.

From Barron's

Related Words

• fanfare
• formality
• grandeur
• solemnity
• splendor