man about town

American  

noun

1. a socially active, sophisticated man who frequents fashionable nightclubs, theaters, restaurants, etc.; playboy; boulevardier.

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man about town British  

noun

1. a fashionable sophisticate, esp one in a big city

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man about town Idioms  

1. A man who frequently attends fashionable social functions, as in Fred is quite the man about town these days. This expression, first recorded in 1734, uses town in the sense of “a sophisticated place” as opposed to rural settings.

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Etymology

Origin of man about town

First recorded in 1775–85

Example Sentences

He was a man about town, excitedly touting the letters and statements of “immense enthusiasm” from elected officials.

From Los Angeles Times

He rose from humble pastoral beginnings to become a man about town in an industry where Black people weren’t afforded such prominent positions.

From Los Angeles Times

Gwendolen also comes recommended by one of Nellie’s children, oldest son Niven, a James Bond-ish man about town.

From Seattle Times

Coming as a surprise to absolutely no one, model Emily Ratajkowski is dating again, and the object of her latest affection appears to be none other than perennial man about town Pete Davidson.

From Los Angeles Times

One evening, Charles Swann, a wealthy, charming man about town and an habitue of the highest ranks of society, is introduced to Odette de Crécy at a theater by a friend who quietly suggests that he might have a good time with her.

From Washington Post