Grandiloquent
/ɡrænˈdɪləkwənt/adjective
Using big, fancy words in a show off way.
Her grandiloquent speech was filled with words that were difficult to understand.
Often appears as...
- grandiloquent speech
- grandiloquent language
Usage tips
Formal
Literary
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Show of Intelligence
Used to sound smart or to impress people, often unnecessarily.
His grandiloquent monologue seemed more about displaying his vocabulary than making a clear point.
Pro Tip 2/3Often Overdone
Using grandiloquent language can feel excessive and may confuse people.
The grandiloquent terms in his book made it hard to read.
Pro Tip 3/3Formal Occasions
It's more fitting for formal events, literary works, or speeches, not casual talk.
For her inauguration, the mayor chose a grandiloquent tone to inspire the city.
Compare with
bombasticfloridfloweryornateoverblownpompouspretentiousrhetorical
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