WordLens

pretentious

1 of 1adjective
//prɪˈtɛnʃəs//
Forms:more pretentious,most pretentious
1

trying too hard to attract attention or impress others

  • The pretentious host constantly name‑dropped celebrities.
  • Her pretentious behavior made the gathering uncomfortable.
  • He gave a pretentious performance, overacting every scene.
  • The pretentious display of wealth offended the guests.
  • She posted pretentious selfies to gain followers.
Antonyms:
unpretentious
2

expressing exaggerated or unwarranted importance, value, or status

  • The pretentious language alienated most of the audience.
  • They built a pretentious mansion with gold‑plated gates.
  • His pretentious manner suggested authority he didn't have.
  • The pretentious décor overwhelmed the small café.
  • She delivered a pretentious speech full of self‑praise.
Synonyms:
ostentatious