Nouveau riche

usgb
noun

People who have recently become rich, especially if they display wealth.

The yacht harbor was full of the nouveau riche showing off their wealth.
Visual representation of "nouveau riche" - People who have recently become rich, especially if they display wealth

Often appears as...

  • member of the nouveau riche
  • display of the nouveau riche

Usage tips

Disapproving

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Visual representation of "nouveau riche"
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Negative Nuance

The term can carry a negative tone, suggesting a lack of sophistication or taste despite wealth.

Illustration for Negative Nuance
Some old-money families view the nouveau riche as lacking elegance.
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Cultural Contrast

'Nouveau riche' is often used to contrast with 'old money', those with inherited wealth.

Illustration for Cultural Contrast
He was considered nouveau riche compared to her old-money pedigree.
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Status Symbolism

Uses of 'nouveau riche' often describe people showing their wealth through status symbols.

Illustration for Status Symbolism
The nouveau riche businessman drove a flashy car as a symbol of his success.
Visual representation of the word "Nouveau riche"

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