status symbol

noun

1. an object, habit, etc., by which the social or economic status of the possessor may be judged.

status symbol

noun

1. a possession which is regarded as proof of the owner's social position, wealth, prestige, etc

Idioms and Phrases

A position or activity that allows one's social prestige to be displayed, as in She doesn't even drive; that car of hers is purely a status symbol. [Mid-1900s]