arrivistes
|ar-riv-istes|
/ˌærɪˈviːsts/
(arriviste)
social upstart / newly arrived, boastful
Etymology
'arriviste' originates from French, specifically the word 'arriviste', where 'arriver' meant 'to arrive'.
'arriviste' was borrowed into English from French in the late 19th century as a loanword referring to an upstart; French 'arriver' itself comes from Old French 'arriver' (to arrive) and ultimately from Latin-derived roots meaning 'to reach/come to'.
Initially, it meant 'one who arrives' or simply 'newcomer', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'an upstart or social climber' with a disparaging tone.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
plural of 'arriviste': a person who has recently acquired wealth or social status and is regarded as presumptuous or socially ambitious; a social climber (often with a negative connotation).
The gala seemed overrun with arrivistes angling for introductions to the city's most influential families.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/10/19 22:24