Parvenu
/ˈpɑːrvənuː/
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Social Climbing
Use 'parvenu' for someone new to wealth or status but seen as trying too hard to fit in.
The old elites saw him as a parvenu who tried to mimic them without grace.
Pro Tip 2/3Negative Tone
'Parvenu' often carries a negative judgement about someone's social abilities.
She was labeled a parvenu for her ostentatious display of wealth.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Context
Understanding historical class systems will help with the connotations of 'parvenu'.
In Victorian novels, a parvenu was often shunned by the aristocracy.
Compare with
ArrivalClimbEgotisticallyNewcomerNouveau richePoserPretendUpstart
Never forget "Parvenu"
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension