The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 13 letter word DEMONSTRATIVE
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
D
E
M
O
N
S
T
R
A
T
I
V
E
More clues leading to the result DEMONSTRATIVE
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "showing off" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case showing off = demonstrative.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does DEMONSTRATIVE mean?
DEMONSTRATIVE noun- (grammar) A demonstrative word
- That serves to demonstrate, show or prove
- Given to open displays of emotion
- (grammar) that specifies the thing or person referred to