Upstart

/ˈʌpˌstɑrt/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A person who has risen suddenly in wealth or power, often used in a disparaging sense.

The wealthy upstart believed he could buy his way into high society.

A person who has recently gained success or prominence, often without the usual background or pedigree.

The tech industry is filled with upstarts who are challenging established companies.

adjective

Having or showing arrogance or conceit due to newly acquired status or wealth.

His upstart attitude alienated many of his long-time friends.

Middle English, from 'up' + 'start', suggesting someone who has jumped up quickly in status.

upstart company:

A newly established business that has quickly risen to prominence.

upstart aristocrat:

A person from an ordinary background who has become wealthy and assumes the attitudes of the elite.

A show-off or someone who brags about their success.

Ever since he got that promotion, he's been acting like such an upstart.

A person who presumes to act with authority but is inexperienced.

Don't listen to him, he's just an upstart trying to sound important.