boast
bohst
Boast (noun) means a statement that shows off one's own achievements or qualities; a brag. Example: “His constant boasts about his salary got tiresome.”
noun
1
A statement that shows off one's own achievements or qualities; a brag.
"His constant boasts about his salary got tiresome."
verb
1
To talk with excessive pride about oneself or one's achievements.
"She loves to boast about her kids' grades."
"He boasted that he'd never lost a game."
2
To have (something impressive) as a feature; to be proud to possess.
"The hotel boasts a rooftop pool with a view of the whole city."
How to use boast
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo brag, or, more neutrally, to proudly feature something impressive.
Common mistake
When used about a place or thing ("the hotel boasts a pool"), it just means "has," with no negative sense — only boasting about yourself sounds vain.
Common pairings
boast about
boast of
boasting rights
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Word forms
- Plural
- boasts
- Third person singular
- boasts
- Past tense
- boasted
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
His constant _____ about his salary got tiresome.
Etymology
From Middle English bosten, likely from a Germanic root meaning "inflated" or "puffed up" — the same idea behind being full of yourself.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for boast
See all rhymes for boast →Frequently asked questions
What does “boast” mean?
The word “boast” means a statement that shows off one's own achievements or qualities; a brag. In plain terms, to brag, or, more neutrally, to proudly feature something impressive.
How do you pronounce “boast”?
“Boast” is pronounced bohst (/boʊst/ in IPA).
How do you use “boast” in a sentence?
Here is “boast” used in a sentence: “His constant boasts about his salary got tiresome.”
What is another word for “boast”?
Words with a similar meaning to “boast” include brag, crow and vaunt.
What is the opposite of “boast”?
The opposite of “boast” — its antonyms — is depreciate.
What part of speech is “boast”?
Depending on how it is used, “boast” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “boast” come from?
The word “boast” comes from Middle English. From Middle English bosten, likely from a Germanic root meaning "inflated" or "puffed up" — the same idea behind being full of yourself.
Is “boast” a common word?
“Boast” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
