# peacock

/ˈpiˌkɑk/ (US) · /pˈiːkɒk/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/peacock
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. the bird

noun · CEFR B1

a large male bird with very long, brightly coloured tail feathers that it can spread out like a fan.

For teachers: a male peafowl of the genus Pavo, distinguished by its iridescent plumage and elongated upper tail coverts.

- The peacock spread its magnificent tail to impress the other birds in the park.
- In the palace gardens, a peacock strutted across the lawn, its vibrant blue and green feathers shimmering in the midday sun.

### 2. a vain person

noun · CEFR C1 · Informal

a person who is very proud and likes to show off their clothes or appearance.

For teachers: a person who exhibits extreme vanity or ostentation, particularly regarding their physical appearance or social status.

- He is such a peacock, spending hours choosing the perfect suit for every party.
- The young executive was something of a peacock, frequently parading through the office in bespoke tailoring to ensure he was noticed by the board.

### 3. to show off

verb · CEFR C2 · Literary · Informal

to walk or behave in a way that shows you are very proud and want people to look at you.

For teachers: to behave ostentatiously or strut in a manner intended to attract attention or admiration.

- The lead singer began to peacock around the stage as soon as the lights went up.
- He spent the entire evening peacocking near the VIP section, hoping to catch the eye of the talent scouts.

## Examples

- The peacock spread its colorful tail feathers in the garden.
- Visitors to the estate often stop to photograph the peacock as it wanders across the lawn.
- While the peahen possesses modest brown plumage for camouflage, the peacock relies on its extravagant display to attract a mate during the breeding season.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.