Flashy
/ˈflæʃi/
Definitions
2 meaningsAttracting attention through a display of wealth, style, or extravagance; showy.
/ˈflæʃi/
Attracting attention by being showy or ostentatious.
He bought a flashy new car with all the latest features.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone wearing a lot of shiny, sparkly things that are hard to miss. That's flashy! It's like when you see a super bright car or clothes with lots of color and designs that make you look twice.
👶 For kids: Something that's flashy is super shiny and bright, like a sparkly toy or a superhero's costume!
More Examples
The movie star's outfit was incredibly flashy on the red carpet.
The designer's latest collection is known for its flashy designs and bold colors.
How It's Used
"She wore a flashy dress to the party."
"He drives a flashy sports car."
"The restaurant's decor was a little too flashy for my taste."
Characterized by quick, sudden displays or movements.
/ˈflæʃi/
Quick and sudden; appearing and disappearing quickly.
The magician performed a flashy card trick.
💡 Simply: Something that appears and then vanishes quickly, like a lightning bolt.
👶 For kids: Something that is quick and bright, like a quick light that appears then goes away.
More Examples
A flashy display of fireworks lit up the night sky.
The news reported on a series of flashy storms in the area.
How It's Used
"A flashy burst of light illuminated the room."
"Flashy storms moved through the area."
Idioms & expressions
flash in the pan
Something that appears promising at first but quickly fails or disappoints.
"The new product was a flash in the pan."
From 'flash' + '-y'. 'Flash' in this context, meaning to shine or glitter, is of uncertain origin but likely imitative. The '-y' suffix indicates 'characterized by' or 'inclined to'.
The term 'flashy' began to be used with its modern meaning in the early 20th century, to describe things that are ostentatious or excessively showy.
Memory tip
Think of a celebrity showing off their flashy jewelry at an event.