social climber

noun

1. a person who attempts to gain admission into a group with a higher social standing.

social climber

noun

1. a person who seeks advancement to a higher social class, esp by obsequious behaviour Sometimes shortened toclimber

Derived Forms

• social climbing, noun

Other Words From

• social climbing noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of social climber¹

First recorded in 1920–25

Example Sentences

Maurizio’s father, Rodolfo, did not approve of Reggiani’s social background and believed she was a social climber and opted not to attend the couple’s wedding.

From Time

She is currently working on her third book, a novel called THE SOCIAL CLIMBER'S HANDBOOK.

From The Daily Beast

"Social climber," Rosamond ticketed her with a calm that made Patricia wince.

From Project Gutenberg

When the cheap jack or the social climber dies, he may like it, but not the gentleman or lady.

From Project Gutenberg

Her employer—her social climber—her dbutante—in jail after a raid on a prize-fight!

From Project Gutenberg

"The only thing I've got against Mrs. Jackson is she's a social climber," Perkins broke in.

From Project Gutenberg

In London he was a social climber, in spite of his gold; here he was a sole autocrat of the camp.

From Project Gutenberg