bluster
UK: ˈblʌstə | US: ˈblʌstər
n. loud, aggressive, or indignant talk with little effect
vi. to talk in a loud, angry, or boastful way
vt. to force or bully by blustering
bluster = blust<to blow violently> + er<agent suffix>
- blust (from Middle Low German blüsteren, meaning "to blow violently" or "to roar")
- er (agent suffix, indicating someone or something that performs the action)
Etymology Origin:
The word "bluster" originated in the late Middle English period, borrowed from Middle Low German blüsteren, which described the sound of wind or stormy noise. Over time, it evolved metaphorically to describe loud, empty speech or bullying behavior—much like the noisy but powerless force of wind. The suffix "-er" reinforces the idea of an agent (e.g., a "blusterer" is one who blusters).
The politician’s speech was full of bluster but lacked substance.
He blustered his way through the argument, intimidating others with his loud voice.
The wind blustered against the windows all night.
Don’t let his bluster fool you—he rarely follows through on threats.
Her bluster faded when confronted with hard evidence.