social



the social ladder

The hierarchical structure or makeup of a culture, society, or social environment. Miss Dumfey hopes to improve her standing on the social ladder with a marriage to the baron. It's always hard for high school freshmen to find their place on the social ladder. Mary's had a chip on her shoulder from being raised in a trailer park, so climbing the social ladder has been her only aim since leaving home.
See also: ladder, social

climb the social ladder

To improve one's position within the hierarchical structure or makeup of a culture, society, or social environment. Miss Dumfey hopes to climb the social ladder by marrying the local diplomat. John's had a chip on his shoulder from being raised in a trailer park, so climbing the social ladder has been his only aim since leaving home.
See also: climb, ladder, social

social climber

A person who tries to elevate his or her social status, often through the calculated use of friendships and relationships. Based on his circle of friends, it's obvious that he is nothing more than a social climber.
See also: climber, social

social justice warrior

One who actively supports and promotes equality and fair treatment among different social classes. Once Betsy got to college, she became a real social justice warrior and decided to pursue a career in law as a way to bring about societal change.
See also: justice, social, warrior

a social climber

someone who tries to join a higher social class, especially by becoming friends with people from that class He was a dedicated social climber and was at all the best parties.
See also: climber, social

social butterfly

A person who flits from event to event without a care in the world. This derogatory phrase is usually but not always applied to women who “live to party.” Going from one dinner party or ball or benefit to another, they are preoccupied with being the height of fashion and popularity. According to one wonderfully descriptive characterization, a social butterfly has a “brow unfurrowed by care or thought."
See also: butterfly, social

Common Names:

NameGenderPronouncedUsage
Balaam['beilæm]
TriciaTRISH-əEnglish
JanuszYAH-nuwshPolish
JackJAKEnglish
Ritika-Indian, Hindi
Runa-Norwegian, Danish, Swedish