Definition

A person who tries to attract attention or admiration by showing off or behaving in a dramatic way.

Example

The politician was a grandstander, always making speeches to impress the crowd.

Conversation

Did you see that guy at the rally yesterday?

Yeah, he was such a big grandstander!

I know, right? It felt like he was more interested in showboating than making real points.

Exactly! It's frustrating when people do that instead of having a genuine conversation.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Grandstander → It is formed from "grand" (from French *grand*, meaning large or great) and "stand" (from Old English *standan*, meaning to stand). The word refers to someone who stands out in a large or great manner, often to attract attention or show off.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who stands out in a big way — 'grand' means large or great, and 'stand' means to be upright. This helps you remember that a grandstander is someone who seeks attention by standing out.

Visually Confused Words