What does ritzy mean?
Ritzy is an informal American adjective describing something luxurious, fashionable, and conspicuously expensive. It is especially associated with elegant or glamorous settings such as hotels, restaurants, resorts, cars, and fashionable neighborhoods. The word can be approving, particularly when it conveys delight in splendid surroundings, but it can also sound mocking when it implies excessive expense or pretension. A ritzy hotel, for example, suggests not only comfort and attractive decoration but also conspicuous displays of wealth and status. Because of its strong social connotations, ritzy is usually more expressive and evaluative than words such as expensive or luxurious. Its tone is often playful, making it especially useful in informal description, criticism, and social commentary.
adjectiveLuxurious, fashionable, and extravagantly expensive. The word is often used to describe upscale hotels, restaurants, cars, clothing, and other things associated with conspicuous wealth or refinement.
- Luxurious, stylish, and extravagantly expensive.
- Characterized by conspicuous wealth, glamour, or ostentatious refinement.
"They celebrated their anniversary with a weekend at a ritzy resort overlooking the coast."
"The film follows an ambitious young designer who enters New York's ritzy fashion world."
"We enjoyed an excellent meal, though the restaurant was far too ritzy for an ordinary evening out."
"He bought a ritzy sports car after his business began bringing in serious money."
Ritzy turns the idea of luxury into a vivid, slightly playful judgment: lavish enough to look almost theatrical.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does ritzy come from?
The adjective arose in the early 20th century in American English, probably as a playful and somewhat derogatory expression for fashionable luxury. Its precise origin is uncertain, and the word cannot be confidently traced to a single earlier source. It was in use among American urban speakers before becoming more broadly established in the following decades.
How ritzy is actually used
Informal and chiefly American. It often carries a mildly critical or humorous connotation, suggesting conspicuous luxury rather than simple comfort or quality.