tawdry

Tawdry is an adjective that describes something that is showy but cheaply made or in poor taste. It is commonly used for clothing, jewelry, decorations, or performances that aim to attract attention with flash rather than quality. The term often carries a moral or aesthetic judgment, suggesting tastelessness or superficial glamour. Tawdry can also be used as a noun in the form tawdriness, or adverbially as tawdrily.

Etymology and history: The word derives from the late Middle English phrase tawdry lace, a corruption of St. Audrey’s lace, which referred to inexpensive, gaudy wares sold at fairs honoring St. Audrey in England. The association with cheap, flashy goods broadened over time to describe not only lace but any garish or low-quality display or behavior.

Usage notes: Tawdry is inherently pejorative and emphasizes appearance over substance. It is used to criticize aesthetics that are ostentatious yet lacking in craftsmanship or integrity. While it can describe objects, it is frequently applied to actions, events, or associations that seem sensational but hollow.

Related terms include gaudy, garish, meretricious, tacky, and showy. Tawdry contrasts with terms that denote elegance or quality, such as tasteful or refined, and its use signals disapproval of excess without depth.