flaunts

Flaunts is the third-person singular present tense of the verb flaunt. It means to display ostentatiously or to exhibit something in a way intended to attract notice or admiration. It commonly describes showy behavior related to possessions, achievements, or appearance, and is typically used with a direct object, as in "She flaunts her wealth" or "The athlete flaunts his medals." The word often carries a critical or negative connotation, implying vanity or boastfulness, though it can be neutral or even positive in contexts that praise confidence or success.

The etymology of flaunt is uncertain; its appearance in English dates from the early modern period. Some scholars propose influences from related Germanic or Romance roots, but no consensus exists. Grammatically, flaunts is transitive: you flaunt something; the act can also be described using the gerund flaunting, as in "flaunting his wealth."

In contemporary discourse, flaunting is discussed in relation to social norms and signaling in wealth, fashion, and social media. It can function as a rhetorical device, drawing attention to what is being shown or to the act of showing itself. Related terms include ostentation, showiness, and parade; antonyms include concealment, restraint, and modesty. Overall, the concept centers on deliberate, conspicuous display intended to impress an audience.