boast
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.”
How to use boast
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo brag, or, more neutrally, to proudly feature something impressive.
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.
Word forms
boasted past tense, boasted past tense, boasts plural, boasts singular, boasts singular
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.