Clinquant

/ˈklɪŋkənt/ adjective

Definition

Glittering with gold or silver; tinsel-like; showy and sparkling.

Etymology

From French 'clinquant' (tinsel), from Dutch 'klinken' (to clink/ring). Shakespeare used it in Henry VIII: 'Today the French, all clinquant, all in gold.'

Kelly Says

Shakespeare used this word to describe the French court dripping in gold! It's fancier than 'sparkly' and classier than 'blingy.' Next time you see something EXTRA glittery, try 'how clinquant!' and watch people's jaws drop! ✨

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.