Upstart - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
An upstart is a person who has recently gained wealth, power, or status but behaves arrogantly or disrespectfully toward others, often provoking resentment. It can also describe something new and ambitious but lacking experience.
Definition:
A person who has risen suddenly to wealth or power, often arrogantly disregarding others.
Synonyms:
parvenu, nouveau riche, social climber
Part of Speech:
noun, adjective
Antonyms:
aristocrat, blue blood
Common Collocations:
arrogant upstart, ambitious upstart, political upstart
Derivatives:
upstarted, upstarting
Usage Tips:
Use "upstart" to describe someone newly successful who behaves arrogantly toward established figures.
Common Phrases:
young upstart, upstart company, upstart challenger
Etymology:
From Middle English "up" + "start," meaning someone who rises suddenly or presumptuously.
Examples:
- 1. The new tech billionaire was dismissed as an upstart by industry veterans.
- 2. She resented being called an upstart despite her rapid promotion.
- 3. The small startup was seen as an upstart in the competitive market.
- 4. His upstart attitude alienated older colleagues who valued tradition.