flaunting

the verb 'flaunt', from which 'flaunting' is directly derived, first appeared in english in the mid-16th century. its origins are obscure but it is often speculated to be of scandinavian origin, perhaps related to the norwegian dialect word 'flanta' (to show off) or the swedish 'flanka' (to wander about idly). the core semantic thread from its uncertain beginnings is one of conspicuous, often aimless or impudent, display. over time, this evolved to specifically mean displaying oneself or one's possessions in a bold, showy, or defiant manner to attract attention, which is precisely the sense captured by the participle 'flaunting'.

the word is a present participle/adjective derived from the verb 'flaunt'. it is not productively formed from separate, identifiable morphemes in modern english. the verb 'flaunt' itself is of obscure origin, possibly scandinavian.