What is “Swank”

Dominion, Volume 23, Issue 109, 1 February 1930, Page 19

What is “Swank”

There was an interesting response to a recent call by the London “Observer” for a definition of “swank.” Here are the best: — “Airs without graces.” “A subaltern in the illegal possession of the manners and bearing of a general officer.” “An abominable word used by abominable people about still more abominable people,” “Crowded canvas on a derelict.” “Spectacular egoism.” “Much cry and little wool.” “A varnish to cover an inferior surface.” “The superiority of the inferior.” “An attempt to hide an inferior complex.” “The outward and visible attribute of the inward and incorruptible egotist.” “A subconscious attempt to contradict a deservedly active inferiority complex.” “The assumption as reality of that which is merely secret ambition.” “A shield ignorantly fashioned to defend self-esteem too conscious of possible attack.” “Displaying to the best advantage the goods you wish you had. “New swank is but old swaggering writ small.” “The big noise from the empty drum.” “Purblind man’s bluff.” “Putting all your goods in the window and filling gaps with dummies.” “An open confession of inability to accomplish one's desires.” “A noise like money.” “Peacock’s feathers on a barn-door rooster.” “A youth in his first long trousers.” ’ "The manner and mode of a cabaret sheik.” “Shop-window tinsel.” “Oxford bags on an office junior.” “Third-class passenger with a first-class ticket.” “Some of the new beach modes.” “A valueless cheque.” “A monkey sitting on a dead lion.” “Making an appointment with the dentist.”