'ostentatious' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'ostentatio,' where 'ostentare' meant 'to display or show.'

'ostentatio' transformed into the French word 'ostentacion,' and eventually became the modern English word 'ostentatious' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to display or show,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'characterized by vulgar or pretentious display.'