pomp

noun

ˈpämp 

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

But for all the pomp and ceremony, China analysts broadly predict the leaders’ personal relationship and policy goals will result in a cautious summit that yields few major deliverables. — Lim Hui Jie, CNBC, 25 Sep. 2026

The salutation will kick off a three-day visit that's expected to be saturated with pomp, even by White House standards. — ABC News, 23 Sep. 2026

The salutation kicks off a three-day visit that’s expected to be saturated with pomp, even by White House standards. — Michelle L. Price, Chicago Tribune, 23 Sep. 2026

Just being there is going to be a goosebump moment for the pomp, circumstance, and the speed. — Bruce Martin, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026

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

Rhymes for pomp

• comp
• pompe
• romp
• stomp
• swamp

Kids Definition

pomp

noun

ˈpämp 

1

: a show of magnificence : splendor

the pomp of a royal ceremony

2

: showy display