parvenuism

/ˌpar.vɛnˈuɪzəm/

Definitions

1. noun

The practice of pretending to have a higher social status than one actually has, often through imitations of upper-class mannerisms or behaviors.

“The parvenuism of the nouveau riche was evident in their lavish parties and ostentatious displays of wealth.”

Synonyms

  • snobbery
  • social climbing

Antonyms

  • democratization
  • egalitarianism