pompous

[pom-puhs]

adjective

1. characterized by an ostentatious display of dignity or importance.

   a pompous minor official.

   Synonyms: pretentious

2. ostentatiously lofty or high-flown.

   a pompous speech.

   Synonyms: bombastic, turgid, inflated

3. Archaic.,  characterized by pomp, or a display of stately splendor or magnificence.

   an impressive and pompous funeral.

pompous

/ ˈpɒmpəs /

adjective

1. exaggeratedly or ostentatiously dignified or self-important

2. ostentatiously lofty in style

   a pompous speech

3. rare,  characterized by ceremonial pomp or splendour

Other Word Forms

• pompously adverb
• unpompous adjective
• unpompously adverb
• unpompousness noun
• pompousness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of pompous¹

First recorded in 1325–75; Middle English word from Late Latin word pompōsus. See pomp, -ous

Example Sentences

So I just quoted them being completely pompous.

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The mockumentary “This Is Spinal Tap” parodied pompous rock musicians to great effect.

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But pompous Henrich and Victor don’t appreciate that their accomplishments are built on other’s sacrifices.

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His first major stage success was as pompous lawyer Paul Bratter in Neil Simon's romantic comedy Barefoot in the Park.

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Adamson plays the band's pompous new promoter while Godliman plays the daughter of their late manager who is now looking after their legal affairs in light of a newly discovered chart return gig clause.

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Related Words

• boastful 
• bombastic 
• grandiose 
• imperious 
• overbearing 
• presumptuous 
• pretentious 
• self-centered 
• self-important 
• selfish