status symbol

noun

1. an object, habit, etc., by which the social or economic status of the possessor may be judged.

status symbol

noun

1. a possession which is regarded as proof of the owner's social position, wealth, prestige, etc

Idioms and Phrases

A position or activity that allows one's social prestige to be displayed, as in She doesn't even drive; that car of hers is purely a status symbol . [Mid-1900s]

Example Sentences

Gold has always been an American status symbol and object of fascination for doomsday preppers, evangelical end-timers, and right-wing commentators like Glenn Beck; it’s easy bait for older retirees, anxious about the savings they’ve built up throughout their life and alienated by the changing world around them, and it’s always been a sensible advertising choice for the types of radio stations and TV networks they tune in to.

From Slate

In the latter, Rory is given a Birkin bag by her wealthy boyfriend Logan — not realizing what the bag means as a status symbol.

From Salon

Since then, they’ve become a status symbol.

From Salon

This built on years, even decades of "wellness" rhetoric that is openly hostile to the idea that health is a communal concern, instead framing good health as a status symbol signaling one's superiority to the hoi polloi.

From Salon

“It was part security theater, and part status symbol,” Vestal said.

From Los Angeles Times