exhibitionist
|ex-hi-bi-tion-ist|
/ˌɛksɪˈbɪʃənɪst/
someone who displays themselves to attract attention
Etymology
'exhibitionist' originates from English, specifically from the word 'exhibition' with the suffix '-ist', where 'exhibition' meant 'a public display' and '-ist' denoted 'a person who practices or is concerned with something'.
'exhibitionist' was formed in the late 19th century from 'exhibition' + '-ist', and eventually became the modern English word 'exhibitionist'.
Initially, it meant 'a person who puts on a public display', but over time it evolved to include the sense of 'someone who seeks attention' and the psychological/sexual meaning.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a person who behaves in a way intended to attract attention or display their abilities or body to others, often in an exaggerated or inappropriate manner.
The exhibitionist at the party kept telling loud stories to get everyone's attention.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Noun 2
a person who derives sexual gratification from exposing their genitals to strangers.
The police arrested the exhibitionist for indecent exposure in the park.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/08/03 19:32