garish
UK: ˈɡɛːrɪʃ | US: ˈɡerɪʃ
adj. excessively bright or showy, especially in a vulgar or tasteless way
adj. glaringly vivid or loud in color or pattern
The word "garish" originates from the obsolete verb "gare," meaning "to stare," combined with the suffix "-ish," which denotes a quality or characteristic. Over time, "garish" evolved to describe something so visually striking or loud that it demands attention—often negatively, implying vulgarity or lack of refinement. The connection to "staring" reflects how such boldness forces the viewer to notice it.
The garish neon signs overwhelmed the quiet street.
She avoided wearing garish colors to the formal event.
The room was decorated in a garish mix of clashing patterns.
Critics dismissed the painting as garish and unsubtle.
His garish tie became a joke among his colleagues.