robber baron

noun

1. History/Historical. a noble who robbed travelers passing through his lands.
2. a ruthlessly powerful U.S. capitalist or industrialist of the late 19th century considered to have become wealthy by exploiting natural resources, corrupting legislators, or other unethical means.

Word History and Origins

Origin of robber baron¹

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

If we look at the robber baron era, there was outrage at the degree to which ultrawealthy people were directly engaging in politics and shaping outcomes and backing particular individuals who were winning and then passing policies that defended the wealth of these oligarchic figures.

From Slate

During the segment, Stewart called Goldstein a “robber baron,” saying that he made his fortune off the high rent he charges at the mobile home parks he owns.

From Los Angeles Times

This is, after all, around the time, historian Matthew Josephson later explained, the term “robber baron” was coined.

From Slate

Robert A. Iger, who leads Disney, publicly pushed back against the striking workers, and found himself jeered on picket lines as a robber baron.

From New York Times

A notorious strikebreaker noted for paying his workers abysmally low wages, the complicated robber baron also publicly supported progressive tax laws, including estate taxes.

From Seattle Times