pageantry

noun

pag·​eant·​ry ˈpa-jən-trē How to pronounce pageantry (audio)
Synonyms of pageantrynext
1
: pageants and the presentation of pageants
2
: colorful, rich, or splendid display : spectacle
3
: mere show : empty display

Examples of pageantry in a Sentence

I like the tradition and pageantry that come with graduations.
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.
This year’s storyline involves a royal succession scenario, which suggests pageantry and heated drama. — Christopher Arnott, Hartford Courant, 28 June 2026 Still, the massive crowds and pageantry are reminiscent of an emotional college football Saturday. — Blair Kerkhoff, Kansas City Star, 23 June 2026 In addition to the monetary compensation and scholarship awards, pageantry is also helping the girls build confidence and learn key behavioral skills. — Zoey Lyttle, PEOPLE, 3 July 2026 The 16-day event will feature food, games and other traditional fair elements, with military flyovers and patriotic pageantry rounding out the festivities. — Alexandra Banner, CNN Money, 25 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for pageantry

Word History

First Known Use

1609, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of pageantry was in 1609

Browse Nearby Words

pageanteer
pageantry
page boy
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pageantry.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pageantry. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

pageantry

noun
pag·​eant·​ry ˈpaj-ən-trē How to pronounce pageantry (audio)
plural pageantries
1
: pageants and the presentation of pageants
2
: splendid display

More from Merriam-Webster on pageantry

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for pageantry

Nglish: Translation of pageantry for Spanish Speakers

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