showy

adjective

ˈshō-ē 

showier; showiest

1

: making an attractive show : striking

a showy orchid

2

: given to or marked by a flashy often tasteless display

showily

ˈshō-ə-lē 

adverb

showiness

ˈshō-ē-nəs 

noun

Synonyms of showy

• noticeable
• prominent
• commanding
• dramatic
• remarkable
• impressive
• striking
• conspicuous

Choose the Right Synonym for showy

showy, pretentious, ostentatious mean given to excessive outward display.

showy implies an imposing or striking appearance but usually suggests cheapness or poor taste.

the performers' showy costumes

pretentious implies an appearance of importance not justified by the thing's value or the person's standing.

a pretentious parade of hard words

ostentatious stresses vainglorious display or parade.

the ostentatious summer homes of the rich

Examples of showy in a Sentence

Perhaps you should wear something a little less showy.

orchid plants are known for their huge showy flowers

Recent Examples on the Web

Hibiscus is another tropical favorite, with large, showy blooms that flourish in warm temperatures. —Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 29 Apr. 2026

Hibiscus is another tropical favorite, with large, showy blooms that flourish in warm temperatures. —Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Miami Herald, 28 Apr. 2026

Sunflowers are the showy option. —Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Sacbee.com, 28 Apr. 2026

Iris From tiny native dwarf crested iris (Iris cristata) to tall showy bearded iris (Iris germanica), these impressive flowers cover the bloom season between tulips, narcissus, and daylilies. —Barbara Gillette, The Spruce, 27 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1697, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for showy

• chloe
• doughy
• joey
• lowy

Kids Definition

showy

adjective

ˈshō-ē 

showier; showiest

1

: attracting attention : striking

showy blossoms

2

: given to or marked by much outward display : gaudy

showy jewelry

showily

ˈshō-ə-lē 

adverb

showiness

ˈshō-ē-nəs 

noun