posturing

American  

[pos-cher-ing] / ˈpɒs tʃər ɪŋ /

noun

1. speech or action that is artificial, hypocritical, or calculated to mislead.

   I'm fed up with the reaching-across-the-aisle posturing intended to make politicians seem like they’re working hard for bipartisan reform.

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adjective

1. engaging in or characterized by such speech or behavior.

   He cynically believes that anybody trying to live up to an ideal is either a posturing liar or a simple-minded fool.

Etymology

Origin of posturing

First recorded in 1620–30; postur(e) ( def. ) + -ing ¹ ( def. ) for the noun; postur(e) ( def. ) + -ing ² ( def. ) for the adjective

Example Sentences

United felt the German giants were posturing and would let Sancho leave regardless.

From BBC

Sometimes dogs clear across the kennel will hold their bones up in the air, look at each other, raise their hair, and start growling at each other, posturing and bragging about their bones.

From Literature

“While labeled the ‘mother of all disruptions,’ this posturing reveals a critical paradox,” said Naveen Das, senior crude analyst at Kpler.

From The Wall Street Journal

It’s a good idea that could help accelerate innovation and ease electric rates, though it will require AI companies to sacrifice their green posturing.

From The Wall Street Journal

Kim Yo Jong, the younger sister of Kim Jong Un, has emerged as one of the most powerful figures in North Korea, playing a leading role in the nation's diplomatic efforts and nuclear posturing.

From Barron's

Related Words

• charade
• cloak
• pretext
• semblance
• veneer