WordLens

arriviste

1 of 1noun
/ˌærɪˈvist/
Forms:arrivistes
1

an individual who is either new to a higher society or trying to get into it, and is looking for their approval

  • The arriviste's attempts to buy favor with expensive gifts were seen as transparent and insincere.
  • Her behavior at the charity event was typical of an arriviste, marked by overt attempts to curry favor.
  • Despite his efforts, the arriviste found it challenging to gain the respect of long-standing members of the club.
  • The film’s protagonist was an arriviste who struggled to fit in with the wealthy social circle he admired.
  • Her sudden wealth made her an arriviste, striving to gain acceptance among the old money families.