ostentar
“ostentar” means “to show off” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to show off
Also: to flaunt
📝 In Action
No le gusta ostentar su riqueza aunque tiene mucho dinero.
B2He doesn't like to show off his wealth even though he has a lot of money.
Ostentaba un anillo de diamantes enorme en su mano derecha.
C1She was flaunting a huge diamond ring on her right hand.
A veces es mejor ser humilde que ostentar lo que uno tiene.
B1Sometimes it is better to be humble than to show off what one has.
to hold
Also: to possess
📝 In Action
Ella ostenta el cargo de vicepresidenta desde el año pasado.
C1She has held the position of vice president since last year.
El atleta todavía ostenta el récord mundial de salto de longitud.
C1The athlete still holds the world record for the long jump.
Nadie más en la familia ha ostentado un título nobiliario.
C2No one else in the family has held a noble title.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: ostentar
Question 1 of 3
Which sentence uses 'ostentar' in the sense of holding a title?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From the Latin word 'ostentare', which means 'to present' or 'to display'. It is a more intense version of the word 'ostendere' (to show).
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
💡 Master Spanish
Take your Spanish to the next level. Read 200+ illustrated and narrated Spanish stories tailored to your level with the Inklingo app!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'ostentar' always negative?
Not necessarily. While 'showing off' wealth can be seen as negative, 'ostentar un cargo' (holding a position) is a neutral, formal way to describe someone's role.
What is the difference between 'ostentar' and 'presumir'?
'Presumir' is much more common in everyday speech and can be used for small things. 'Ostentar' is more formal and usually involves large, visible displays of wealth or status.
Can I use 'ostentar' to say I am holding a coffee cup?
No. For physically holding an object, use 'sostener' or 'sujetar'. 'Ostentar' is for titles, records, or displaying something proudly.