Os`ten*ta"tion (?), n. [L. ostentatio: cf. F. ostentation.] 1. The act of ostentating or of making an ambitious display; unnecessary show; pretentious parade; -- usually in a detractive sense. "Much ostentation vain of fleshly arm." Milton.

He knew that good and bountiful minds were sometimes inclined to ostentation.

2. A show or spectacle. [Obs.] Shak.

Syn. -- Parade; pageantry; show; pomp; pompousness; vaunting; boasting. See Parade.