blowhard
UK: /ˈbləʊhɑːd/ | US: /ˈbloʊhɑːrd/
n. a person who talks boastfully or loudly with little substance; a braggart.
The word "blowhard" combines "blow" (from Old English "blāwan," meaning "to blow air" or metaphorically "to boast") and "hard" (from Old English "heard," implying intensity or excess). Originally, "blow" in this context referred to empty or exaggerated speech, akin to expelling hot air. By the mid-19th century, "blowhard" emerged in American English to describe someone who talks loudly and arrogantly without merit, emphasizing the "hard" persistence of their bragging. The term paints a vivid image of relentless, insubstantial noise.
The politician was dismissed as a blowhard after his speech failed to address any real issues.
Don’t listen to him—he’s just a blowhard who loves the sound of his own voice.
The bar regular was a notorious blowhard, always spinning wild tales about his adventures.
Her uncle’s reputation as a blowhard made family gatherings exhausting.
The coach warned the team not to become blowhards after their first victory.