visiting fireman

American  

noun

Informal.

1. an influential person accorded special treatment while visiting an organization, industry, city, etc.

2. a visitor, as a tourist or vacationer, in a city, presumed to be a big spender.

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visiting fireman British  

noun

1. informal a visitor whose presence is noticed because he is an important figure, a lavish spender, etc

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Etymology

Origin of visiting fireman

First recorded in 1935–40

Example Sentences

His headquarters were the "thirst emporiums" on the Right Bank, and rare was the visiting fireman in Paris who missed him.

From Time Magazine Archive