Pendantry

Pendantry is a term used to describe a style of behavior or speech characterized by a deliberate and often exaggerated display of knowledge, learning, or intelligence, particularly on trivial matters. It is a form of showing off, aiming to impress others with one's erudition. Individuals who exhibit pendantry often focus on minute details, obscure facts, or complex terminology, sometimes to the detriment of clear communication or genuine understanding.

The etymology of the word can be traced to "pedant," which originally referred to a teacher. Over time, the connotation shifted to describe someone who is excessively concerned with minor rules or details, or who makes a show of their learning. Pendantry is often perceived negatively, suggesting a lack of social awareness or an overemphasis on superficial aspects of knowledge rather than its practical application or deeper meaning. It can manifest in various contexts, including academic discussions, everyday conversations, or even written works. The key element is the perceived ostentation of intellectual prowess, often in situations where such a display is unnecessary or unwelcome. While a certain level of knowledge is valued, pendantry is characterized by its gratuitous and often tiresome presentation.