Swagger

BRAVADO

This bold display often masks insecurity and is common in showy confidence or boastful behavior. Think of a word that starts with "bra" but isn’t underwear.

"Swagger" is a slang term for confident, showy behavior, and "bravado" fits perfectly as it means boldness meant to impress others. The clue plays on the idea of exaggerated self-assurance, which is exactly what bravado describes—more about appearance than real courage. It’s a straightforward definition with no hidden wordplay, just a direct match between the informal term and its more formal synonym.