Putting on the Dog: Flashy Displays and Fanciful Flaunts
To put on a showy display. The term originated in America around the time of the Civil War, but its ultimate origin has been lost. At least one writer believes it came from the custom of the newly wealthy to display their prosperity by keeping extravagantly pampered pets. In any event, Lyman H. Bagg catalogued it as college slang in his Four Years at Yale (ca. 1869), in which he wrote, “To put on the dog is to make a flashy display, to cut a swell.”
Related Terms and Similar Expressions
- Cutting a Swell: To show off or display wealth in an ostentatious manner.
- Dressed to the Nines: Wearing very fashionable or formal clothing.
- Living High on the Hog: Enjoying luxury or extravagance.
- Putting on Airs: Assuming a manner of superiority or pretended elegance.
- Flaunt it if You’ve Got it: To openly display one’s wealth or achievements.
Synonyms
- Show off, Flash, Flaunt, Ostentate, Parade
Antonyms
- Underplay, Downplay, Humble, Modest
Humor-Filled Quotes
- “If you ain’t making waves, you ain’t kicking hard enough.” – Unknown
- “Remember, if you are ever caught on stage, make sure it’s with a really big hat.” – This Not-A-Real-Author
Proverbs
- “Empty vessels make the most noise.” – Derived from Latin proverb
- “Pride comes before a fall.” – Biblical
Suggested Literature & Media
- Books:
- The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald – Illustrates the ultimate showy display of wealth.
- Vanity Fair by William Makepeace Thackeray – A tale of social climbing and ostentatious displays.
- Movies:
- The Devil Wears Prada – A comedic exposé on the fashion industry’s extravagant displays.
- Crazy Rich Asians – A romantic comedy filled with opulent scenarios.
- Songs:
- “Material Girl” by Madonna – A pop anthem celebrating (and criticizing) material wealth.
- “Fergalicious” by Fergie – A fun, flashy depiction of showing off.
Thought-Provoking Farewell
Remember, my dear reader, that life’s truest values are often underplayed and reside not in flashy displays, but in the subtleties of kindness, humility, and genuine connections. ‘Put on the dog’ when necessary, but never lose sight of what grounds your soul.
With sparkle and substance, ✨ E. Z. Unbridled
