man about town

noun

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

man about town

noun

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of man about town¹

First recorded in 1775–85

Idioms and Phrases

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.

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

According to Carroll, she crossed paths with Trump at Bergdorf Goodman sometime in 1995 or 1996, when he was a real estate mogul and man about town.

From Seattle 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