Meaning & Definition of word "Snob"

Snob

/snɒb/

noun:

  • 1. A person who seeks to associate with those of higher social status, often to the exclusion of others considered to be of lower status.
    • Example: He acts like a snob, always bragging about his expensive tastes.
  • 2. A person who is overly concerned with the social status and the perceived quality of goods or services.
    • Example: Her snobbery is evident in the way she dismisses anything not produced by a designer label.
  • 3. A person who believes that their social status or taste is superior to others.
    • Example: Being a food snob, he only dines at Michelin-starred restaurants.

verb:

  • 1. To act like a snob; to regard with disdain or superiority.
    • Example: She snobbed her old friends after marrying into wealth.

Etymology

Perhaps originated from 'snebb,' a slang term for a shoemaker's apprentice in the 18th century, referring to one's lower status.

Common Phrases and Expressions

social snob:

A person who only associates with people of high social status.

wine snob:

Someone who is condescending about other people's taste in wine.

intellectual snob:

A person who looks down on others for their lack of knowledge or education.

Related Words

elitism:

The belief that society should be led by an elite group.

pretentious:

Attempting to impress by affecting greater importance or merit than is actually possessed.

Slang Meanings of snob

Meaning: Rich kid

Example Sentence: That rich kid is such a snob, he won't talk to anyone who's not wealthy.

Meaning: Poser

Example Sentence: Don't be a poser; acting like a snob won't win you any friends.