chest-thumping

noun

chest-thump·​ing ˈches(t)-ˌthəm-piŋ How to pronounce chest-thumping (audio)
Synonyms of chest-thumpingnext
: conduct or expression marked by pompous or arrogant self-assertion
political chest-thumping

Examples of chest-thumping in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
But his uppercase blasts, chest-thumping rants and coarse insults are more likely now to draw a Gallic shrug. — Serge Schmemann, Mercury News, 14 Apr. 2026 The Sabres took the chest-thumping contest, out-hitting the B’s 53-38. — Stephen Conroy, Hartford Courant, 20 Apr. 2026 As the sun began to lower, the men gathered in a circle, the tempo of their chest-thumping accelerating with the intensity of their chants. — Nabih Bulos, Los Angeles Times, 22 June 2026 Around the world, mourning rituals of Muharram and Ashoura can include rhythmic chest-thumping or beating in unison and public processions. — ABC News, 25 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for chest-thumping

Word History

First Known Use

1915, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of chest-thumping was in 1915

Rhymes for chest-thumping

See All Rhymes for chest-thumping

Browse Nearby Words

chest shot
chest-thumping
chest tone
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Chest-thumping.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/chest-thumping. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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