pomp

noun

ˈpämp How to pronounce pomp (audio)
Synonyms of pomp
1
: a show of magnificence : splendor
Every day begins … in a pomp of flaming colours …—F. D. Ommanney
2
: a ceremonial or festival display (such as a train of followers or a pageant)
a dignitary treated with pomp and circumstance [=impressive formal activities or ceremonies]
3
a
: ostentatious display : vainglory
b
: an ostentatious gesture or act

Examples of pomp 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.
There aren’t crowds of excited supporters or the pomp of champagne glasses and white tablecloths. — ABC News, 26 May 2026 There is also plenty of pomp, along with bells, bonfires, and illuminations. — Sheldon Pearce, New Yorker, 3 July 2026 While the pomp and pageantry of the annual event pretty much remains the same year after year, meaningful appearances—and surprise cameos—by different members of the Firm have kept fans on their toes. — Christina Perrier, InStyle, 13 June 2026 Naturally, the United States semi-quincentennial will be celebrated with real pomp here. — Danuta Hamlin, FOXNews.com, 16 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for pomp

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French pompe, from Latin pompa procession, pomp, from Greek pompē act of sending, escort, procession, pomp, from pempein to send

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of pomp was in the 14th century

Rhymes for pomp

See All Rhymes for pomp

Browse Nearby Words

Pomoxis
pomp
pompadour
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

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Kids Definition

pomp

noun
ˈpämp How to pronounce pomp (audio)
1
: a show of magnificence : splendor
the pomp of a royal ceremony
2
: showy display

More from Merriam-Webster on pomp

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for pomp

Nglish: Translation of pomp for Spanish Speakers

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