Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

new-money

noun

/nü ˈmənē/

Definition

New-money refers to individuals or families who have recently acquired wealth, as opposed to those whose wealth has been inherited over multiple generations.

Examples

After winning the lottery, he became part of the new-money crowd.
Many new-money entrepreneurs use their fortunes to invest in new startups.
The lavish parties thrown by some new-money elites often draw criticism from traditional social circles.

Meaning

The term often carries connotations of being less refined or lacking the sophistication that comes with old-money status. New-money individuals may be more expressive of their wealth through consumption and lifestyle choices.