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]

Example Sentences

Now that offices are reopening, remote work is becoming a status symbol again—but this time for the employees with the greatest bargaining power.

From Time

In fact, the wealthy shunned the outdoors and natural light in an effort to keep their skin pale — a status symbol separating them from the poor who toiled in the fields.

From Ozy

Shoppers have reciprocated, buying up Nike products and elevating its Jordan sneakers to status symbols.

From Quartz

The assets have become a sort of Internet-savvy status symbol and are attracting a certain brand of techie celebrity.

From Washington Post

So mimicking funeral practices used for royalty may have been a status symbol.

From Science News For Students

With the Apple Watch, it is plunging into a market where the main product is—and almost always has been—a fashion-y status symbol.

From The Daily Beast

Like blood ivory, some see it as a status symbol due to its perceived prestige and ballooned financial value.

From The Daily Beast

In the Middle East, a cheetah riding shotgun in the plush leather seat of a luxury sports car is the ultimate status symbol.

From The Daily Beast

Iris (name has been changed) has become one such “status symbol.”

From The Daily Beast

A tapestry like this was the ultimate luxury good and status symbol, worth so much more than a measly painting.

From The Daily Beast

Automobiles were owned by the government only, and bicycles, a status symbol, were available to only a few.

From Project Gutenberg