Spanish Conversation · Level 112
60 words
Spanish word
ostentar
Pronunciation
IPA/ostenˈtaɾ/
Meaning
- verbshow off
Example
Él ostenta medallas en la chaqueta.
He shows off medals on his jacket.
More examples
No le interesa ostentar riquezas en las redes sociales.
He is not interested in showing off wealth on social media.
Core concept
Person wearing medals and a sash while posing.
Common phrases
ostentar medallas
show off medals
ostentar riquezas
show off wealth
ostentar lujos
show off luxuries
Similar words
presumir: Boasts about appearance or belongings to impress others and seek approval.
mostrar: Shows tangible objects, documents, or information for others to see or inspect.
lucir: Wears or displays clothing and accessories to emphasize attractiveness or style.
Definition in Spanish
Mostrar o presumir algo con intención de impresionar a otras personas; también emplearse en contextos formales para indicar que alguien posee o ejerce un título, cargo o distinción.
Word origin
The Spanish verb ostentar comes from Latin ostentare, a frequentative of ostendere 'to show', and means displaying something to impress others and, in formal contexts, holding or claiming a title.
Usage tips
- Common collocations include ostentar un cargo and ostentar un título, and in casual speech presumir is the more natural verb while lucir is used for showing clothes or accessories.