The verb vaunt has been used since the 15th century with the meaning “to make a vain display of one’s own worth or attainments”—in other words, “to brag or boast.” Over time, vaunt developed the meaning “to boast of (something),” as in “the promotional flier vaunts the natural beauty of the area,” and gave rise to the adjectival form vaunted. The history of vaunt and vaunted leads back to the Latin word vānus, meaning “vain” or “empty.” The word vain itself is also a descendant of vānus.

Examples

The team was able to overcome their opponents’ vaunted defense and achieve an upset victory.

“She’s been known to include works by vaunted artists in her videos, and with her husband Jay-Z, she’s built up an important collection of Black art.” — Alex Greenberger, Art News, 3 Aug. 2020