Braggadocio

Braggadocio is an instance of boasting or arrogant behavior. It is characterized by exaggerated self-importance and excessive pride, often used to impress or intimidate others, but frequently concealing insecurity. This inflated speech and conduct is designed to draw attention and admiration, but typically elicits skepticism and ridicule. The term implies a lack of genuine substance behind the grand pronouncements. The source of the word can be traced back to the boasting character of the same name in Edmund Spenser's epic poem, 'The Faerie Queene'.

Braggadocio meaning with examples

• His constant tales of heroic deeds, though unsubstantiated, were dismissed as mere braggadocio. The listeners knew he was inflating the truth, and some of us even chuckled when he began to speak. His reputation was one of showmanship and he was known for his over-the-top performance. In the end, the crowd was largely unimpressed, which in turn caused him to clam up, with his false bravado exposed.
• The politician's speech was filled with braggadocio about his accomplishments, conveniently omitting any mention of his failures. He bragged incessantly, in part because he did not want to reveal his true self. His boasts, while entertaining to some, were off putting to others because of his lack of substance. The audience, while mostly in awe of his supposed achievements, were also wary of his exaggerated words.
• Her success, driven by years of hard work, was sometimes undermined by her unnecessary braggadocio about the amount of money that she had earned. She spoke incessantly of her financial achievements. The people she conversed with were generally unimpressed. Though successful, her showboating demeanour, led people to dislike her as a person and she ultimately lost friends and associates because of it.
• Despite the team's mediocre performance, the coach's pre-game interviews were full of braggadocio, promising a resounding victory. His hubris, while it had previously worked, was ultimately exposed because of their eventual defeat. This exaggerated confidence seemed disconnected from reality. His public persona ultimately backfired, making the loss that much more embarrassing, as his statements now rang hollow in the aftermath.