About this episode
This episode explores the word 'flamboyant', its meaning, usage, and etymology.
Merriam-Webster's Word of the Day for May 6, 2026 is: flamboyant • \flam-BOY-ant\ • adjective Someone or something described as flamboyant has a very noticeable quality that attracts a lot of attention. Such a person or thing is often strikingly elaborate or colorful in their behavior or display. // Reality television attracts millions of viewers for its depictions of flamboyant , larger-than-life personalities living equally flamboyant lifestyles. See the entry > Examples: “[Helen] McCrory’s flamboyant and perfectly drawn portrayal of Polly was the show’s real treasure, a steel-willed matriarch unusually attuned to the mysticism of the Shelby family’s Romani roots who also served as a ruthlessly pragmatic consigliere. ... McCrory’s Polly was so electric that the show remained totally riveting any time she was onscreen.” — Jack Hamilton, Slate , 20 Mar. 2026 Did you know? Associate the word flamboyant with bananas flambé and the word’s fiery etymology will be seared in your mind. Flamboyant , which was borrowed into English from French in the 19th century, can be traced back to the Old French word flambe , meaning “flame.” In its earliest uses flamboyant…
People in this episode
Host: Merriam-Webster
Topics covered
- language
- adjectives
- flamboyant
- etymology
- pop culture
Keywords
- flamboyant
- adjective
- etymology
- pop culture
- language
Mentioned in this episode
Books & works: Slate
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