What is bombast?

Bombast refers to language that is overly grandiose, overblown, and pompous. It is characterized by the use of excessive hyperbole, exaggeration, and theatricality to create an impression of importance or greatness. Bombast is often associated with speeches, writing, or other forms of communication that are intended to impress or intimidate others, rather than to convey a clear message or meaning. The term derives from the Latin word bombax, which means "cotton," and refers to the inflated, puffy quality of cotton that is similar to the inflated, exaggerated quality of bombastic language. While bombast can be effective in certain contexts, such as in literary works that use grandiose language to create a sense of drama, it is often considered a negative characteristic when used in ordinary communication, political oratory, or persuasive speeches.