bragging rights

American  

[brag-ing rahyts] / ˈbræg ɪŋ ˌraɪts /

plural noun

1. the presumed right to brag or boast, often associated with winning a contest of skill, as cooking or fishing.

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bragging rights British  

plural noun

1. notional privileges that are gained by defeating a close rival

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Etymology

Origin of bragging rights

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

“He’s really interested in the bragging rights of the moment,” said Michael Scherer, a journalist at the Atlantic.

From Slate • May 7, 2026

Videos ranking the best players of specific games show that bragging rights accrue long after the achievement itself.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 15, 2026

Amen Thompson added 15 points, nine rebounds and seven assists for Houston -- gaining statistical bragging rights over his twin brother Ausar who scored 12 points with eight rebounds and three assists for Detroit.

From Barron's • Jan. 24, 2026

Do you still call that state bragging rights?

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 1, 2026

“If I don’t come back, you have my permission to add my moonstone badge to your VanQuish collection. Think about the bragging rights you’ll have at the next convention.”

From "Amari and the Night Brothers" by B.B. Alston