PARVENUE

Pronunciation (US):

(GB):

 Dictionary entry overview: What does parvenue mean? 

• PARVENUE (adjective)
  The adjective PARVENUE has 2 senses:

1. characteristic of someone who has risen economically or socially but lacks the social skills appropriate for this new position

2. of or characteristic of a parvenu

  Familiarity information: PARVENUE used as an adjective is rare.

 Dictionary entry details 

• PARVENUE (adjective)

Sense 1

Meaning:

Characteristic of someone who has risen economically or socially but lacks the social skills appropriate for this new position

Synonyms:

nouveau-riche; parvenu; parvenue; upstart

Similar:

pretentious (making claim to or creating an appearance of (often undeserved) importance or distinction)

Sense 2

Meaning:

Of or characteristic of a parvenu

Synonyms:

parvenu; parvenue

Similar:

new (not of long duration; having just (or relatively recently) come into being or been made or acquired or discovered)