spread-eagleism

Definition

Noun (uncountable): - Exaggerated or boastful patriotism: "spread-eagleism" refers to an excessive, often loud and showy, display of national pride, especially American nationalism. It implies a bombastic or jingoistic attitude that is more about rhetoric than substance. - Swaggering self-aggrandizement: The term can also denote a general tendency to speak or act with arrogant confidence, often in a way that is perceived as hollow or theatrical.

Usage Examples
  • (Exaggerated patriotic boasting.)
  • (Showy, hollow nationalism.)
  • (Boastful, uncritical patriotism.)
Advanced Usage

  • "to indulge in spread-eagleism": to engage in excessive or theatrical patriotic display.

    • The orator indulged in spread-eagleism, waving the flag and shouting slogans to rouse the crowd. (He used exaggerated patriotic rhetoric.)

  • "a fit of spread-eagleism": a sudden, intense burst of jingoistic behavior.

    • During the crisis, the nation suffered a fit of spread-eagleism, demanding military action without considering consequences. (A temporary, aggressive patriotic frenzy.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Spread-eagle (adj): characterized by or relating to spread-eagleism; also, literally, with arms and legs extended like an eagle.

    • His spread-eagle rhetoric alienated moderate voters. (His boastful patriotic language.)

  • Spread-eagleist (n): a person who exhibits or advocates spread-eagleism.

    • The newspaper was run by a notorious spread-eagleist who printed only pro-American propaganda. (An ardent, showy patriot.)
Synonyms
  • Jingoism: extreme nationalism, especially in the form of aggressive or warlike foreign policy.
  • Chauvinism: exaggerated or aggressive patriotism, often with a belief in national superiority.
  • Flag-waving: the display of patriotic symbols or sentiments in a superficial or emotional manner.
Related Idioms

  • Wave the flag: to display patriotic feelings in a loud or obvious way.

    • He always waves the flag at political rallies, but does little for veterans. (He shows superficial patriotism.)

  • Beat the drum: to promote something (especially nationalism) with enthusiasm and noise.

    • The senator beat the drum for American exceptionalism, ignoring economic realities. (He loudly promoted national pride.)