Prunk

Prunk is a German noun meaning pomp, ostentation, splendor, or showiness. It denotes lavish display intended to impress or assert status, and it is often used in contexts involving wealth, ceremony, or decoration. While not always pejorative, Prunk generally carries a negative nuance, suggesting excessive or pretentious display, as in the phrase Prunk und Protz.

Origin and nuance: Prunk is a native German word with long-standing usage in literature and speech. In modern German, it tends to emphasize conspicuous ornament rather than mere beauty or quality. It is related in meaning to words such as Pracht (splendor) and Luxus (luxury), but Prunk emphasizes the ostentatious aspect. The adjective prunkvoll (showy, pompous) is commonly used to describe objects or settings.

Usage: Prunk appears in descriptions of architecture, interiors, costumes, and ceremonial occasions that aim to project wealth or power. Historic palaces, royal regalia, or elaborate processions may be described as displaying Prunk. The term is also found in journalism and cultural criticism to signal excess and pretentious display.

Translations and related terms: In English, Prunk is typically translated as pomp, splendor, ostentation, or showiness. Related German terms include Pracht (splendor) and Luxus (luxury), with Bescheidenheit or Schlichtheit serving as antonyms.