Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

parvenu

Noun

/ˈpär-və-ˌnü/

Definition

A person who has recently acquired wealth, status, or power but has not yet gained the social acceptance that usually accompanies such advancements.

Examples

The parvenu arrived at the gala, wearing an extravagant outfit that drew the attention of seasoned socialites.
She felt like a parvenu in the exclusive club, struggling to fit in with those who had been members for years.

Meaning

A parvenu is often seen as someone who is considered to be new to the elite class and may not possess the social graces or cultural knowledge that others in that class have.