Four Hundred

or 400

noun

1. the exclusive social set of a city or area.

Four Hundred

noun

1. the Four Hundred
   the most exclusive or affluent social clique in a particular place

Word History and Origins

Origin of Four Hundred¹

An Americanism dating back to 1885–90; allegedly after the capacity of the ballroom in the mansion of Caroline Schermerhorn Astor, a leader of New York society in the late 19th century

Example Sentences

Forty years after they began the task – and nearly four hundred years after receiving their first commission – sages in Paris have finally produced a new edition of the definitive French dictionary.

From BBC

“Oh, I’ll remember you, Princess,” it said, its smile showing all four hundred of its teeth.

From Literature

Even on a tiny screen from four hundred miles away, it was easy to see that Mom was uncomfortable.

From Literature

It had already survived four hundred years and a kidnapping when World War I arrived.

From Literature

Analysing DNA from both breast tissue and white blood from over four hundred breast cancer patients, they made several important discoveries providing new light on the subject.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• jet set