Pronunciation: [bˈɒmbastɹi] (IPA) 
Bombastry is spelled with eight letters and two syllables. Its IPA phonetic transcription is ˈbɒmbəstri. The word is derived from the French word bombastre and is a noun that refers to the use of pompous or over-elaborate language. The first syllable, "bom", sounds like the word "bomb" without the "b", while the second syllable, "bastry", has a short "a" sound followed by a "stree" sound that rhymes with pastry.
Bombastry is a noun that refers to extravagant, pompous, or boastful speech or writing that is intended to impress or deceive others. The word is derived from the Middle English term "bombastrie," which in turn comes from the Old French word "bombace," meaning cotton padding.
The term is often used to describe language that is grandiose, exaggerated, or inflated, typically used to project a false sense of importance or elegance. Bombastry can be associated with the excessive use of flowery, ostentatious, or high-sounding words and expressions that lack substance or depth. It is frequently employed by individuals attempting to appear more intelligent or profound than they actually are. Moreover, bombastry can be used as a tool for manipulation or persuasion, as it aims to dazzle or overwhelm the listener or reader with an imposing display of language.
Bombastry can be observed in various contexts, such as political speeches, advertising, literature, or even everyday conversations. Although bombastry may succeed in capturing attention momentarily, it often fails to convey genuine meaning or effectively communicate ideas. As a result, bombastry is often criticized for obscuring rather than illuminating the subject matter.
Overall, bombastry is a term that encompasses the use of pretentious, grandiloquent, or inflated language, typically employed to impress or deceive others, but often lacking in substance or sincerity.
The word "bombastry" derives from the Latin word "bombus", meaning "buzzing" or "booming". It entered the English language in the early 17th century, derived from the Latin term "bombastes", which referred to a large, blustering, or boisterous person. Over time, the term "bombastry" evolved to describe exaggerated, pretentious, or pompous language, typically used to impress or intimidate others.
