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. [ 1913 Webster ]
He knew that good and bountiful minds were sometimes inclined to ostentation. Atterbury. [ 1913 Webster ]
2. A show or spectacle. [ Obs. ] Shak. [ 1913 Webster ]