Meaning & Definition of word "Gaudy"

Gaudy

/ˈɡɔːdi/

adjective:

  • 1. Extravagantly bright or showy, typically so as to be tasteless.
    • Example: The hall was decorated with gaudy streamers and balloons for the party.
  • 2. Characterized by vulgar, ostentatious display; flashy.
    • Example: She wore a gaudy dress that attracted all the wrong kind of attention.
  • 3. Overly ornate; excessively elaborate in decoration or style.
    • Example: The architecture of the building was considered gaudy by modern standards.

Etymology

From Middle English 'gaudy', from Old French 'gaudi', from Latin 'gaudium' meaning 'joy'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

gaudy display:

An ostentatiously showy exhibition, often lacking elegance.

gaudy colors:

Very bright colors that are often seen as tasteless.

gaudy party:

A party characterized by excessive decoration or ostentatiousness.

Related Words

ostentatious:

Characterized by vulgar or pretentious display; designed to impress or attract notice.

showy:

Attractive or impressive but lacking in depth or subtlety.

Slang Meanings of gaudy

Meaning: Too flashy or excessive.

Example Sentence: That outfit is just gaudy for a casual night out.

Meaning: In bad taste; overly extravagant.

Example Sentence: Her gaudy choice of nail polish clashed with her outfit.