Definition of peacock

Short definition: The word peacock refers to a male bird known for its bright feathers and dramatic tail display, often used to describe beauty, pride, or someone who likes to show off their appearance or abilities.

Looking for a clear and natural explanation of the word peacock? The word peacock is commonly used when talking about birds, beauty, and display. Peacock is best known for its striking tail feathers and dramatic appearance. Beyond biology, the word is also used figuratively to describe people who like to show off. You will see it in nature writing, symbolism, and everyday expressions. Below, each meaning is explained in a calm and natural way, with enough detail to feel clear, human, and expressive.

Forms: peacock, peacocks
Related: peafowl n., peahen n., bird n.
Syllable: pea-cock

1. (Noun) A male peafowl famous for its long colorful tail feathers that spread out in a fan shape.

   A peacock is the male of the peafowl species, known for its bright blue and green feathers and its large decorative tail, which it displays by spreading wide to attract mates or show dominance.

   The peacock slowly spread its tail, revealing a wide fan of colorful feathers that shimmered in the sunlight.
   Visitors stopped to admire the peacock as it walked proudly across the garden.
   The zoo explained how the peacock uses its tail display during mating season.

   Synonyms: peafowl male, decorative bird, colorful bird, display bird, ornamental bird, exotic bird, showy bird, garden bird, tropical looking bird, feathered display bird, bright plumage bird, royal bird
   Antonyms: peahen, plain bird, dull colored bird, non display bird, modest bird, simple bird, camouflaged bird, ground bird, unremarkable bird, hidden species, low profile bird, colorless bird

2. (Noun) A person who likes to show off or attract attention in an obvious way.

   Informally, a peacock can describe someone who enjoys showing off their appearance, achievements, or confidence, often behaving in a proud or attention seeking way.

   He walked into the room like a peacock, clearly enjoying the attention from everyone around him.
   She teased him for being a peacock whenever he talked about his success.
   The flashy outfit made him look like a peacock at the party.

   Synonyms: show off, attention seeker, bragger, flashy person, proud display person, exhibitionist, self promoter, boastful individual, confident showman, vain person, dramatic personality, ego driven person
   Antonyms: humble person, modest individual, low key person, reserved character, shy person, quiet presence, unassuming individual, humble personality, understated person, selfless individual, discreet character, modest behavior