Joneses
Americanplural noun
Etymology
Origin of Joneses
First recorded in 1925–30
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Don’t let keeping up with the Joneses become a jones in itself.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 26, 2026
Mpoyi not only acknowledges that the Joneses have supported him but also has shown protective instincts with the family.
From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 2, 2026
With TikTok and Instagram reels constantly bombarding you with ads and influencer promotions, it’s hard not to feel like you’re missing out if you’re not buying the latest products and keeping up with the Joneses.
From Salon ● Feb. 17, 2025
Using private equity to keep up with the Joneses has the fatal flaw that the Joneses have their own access to capital.
From Slate ● Dec. 12, 2024
The “Jones Theory” was much repeated—especially to the Joneses, a dignified and sensible family, who refused to be flustered.
From "In Cold Blood" by Truman Capote
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
