Definition

A person who is overly concerned with their appearance and often talks too much, usually in a way that shows off or tries to impress others.

Example

He acted like a popinjay, always boasting about his looks and achievements.

Conversation

Did you see that guy at the party last night?

Yeah, he was quite the popinjay, wasn't he?

Absolutely! He just wouldn't stop talking about himself.

I know, right? It was exhausting to listen to.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Popinjay originates from the Middle French 'papegai', meaning parrot, which itself comes from the Latin 'papilio', meaning butterfly. The term evolved to describe a parrot-like figure, often used to refer to a vain or conceited person who is overly concerned with appearance.

Memory Tip

Imagine a parrot ('papegai') that mimics and shows off, helping you remember that a 'popinjay' refers to someone who is vain and overly concerned with their looks.

Visually Confused Words