conspicuous consumption
nounEtymology Coined by American economist and sociologist Thorstein Veblen in 1899.
1
A public display of acquisition of possessions with the intention of gaining social prestige; excessive consumerism in order to flaunt one's purchasing power.
- Conspicuous consumption of valuable goods is a means of reputability to the gentleman of leisure.1899, Thorstein Veblen, chapter 4, in The Theory of the Leisure Class […] , New York: Macmillan, →OCLC:
- "Conspicuous consumption" is a proof of economic success.1907 June, Alvin S. Johnson, “Influences Affecting the Development of Thrift”, in Political Science Quarterly, volume 22, number 2, page 238:
3 more examples
- Professional humanists . . . resent Veblen's saying that knowing an ancient language is conspicuous consumption and conspicuous waste, like growing your fingernails long and painting them, or keeping a Pekingese.1952 Nov, Paul Mackendrick, “Education for the Art of Living”, in The Journal of Higher Education, volume 23, number 8, page 423:
- As a society becomes richer, those whose incomes do not grow spend more on conspicuous consumption in an attempt to keep up.2004 Sep, Ed Hopkins, Tatiana Kornienko, “Running to Keep in the Same Place: Consumer Choice as a Game of Status”, in The American Economic Review, volume 94, number 4, page 1086:
- Greek artist Akylas' song "Ferto," or "Bring It," provides a playful take on conspicuous consumption in a country still scarred by the economic wounds of the 2008 financial crisis.2026 May 16, The Associated Press, “The Eurovision Song Contest reaches its grand final with pop and protests”, in National Public Radio, Washington, D.C.: National Public Radio:
- Related terms
- acquisitiveness, keep up with the Joneses, Veblen effect