Idiom idiom
rank and riches
Slang Cockney rhyming slang · East London
Meaning
breeches
Examples
“He wears his rank and riches with a matching jacket.”
“The actor stepped onto the stage wearing traditional rank and riches that looked very uncomfortable.”
“The museum display featured a pair of silk rank and riches worn by a nobleman during the eighteenth century.”
Origin
Riding breeches which were worn in the 19th century by those with either wealth or a title.
Anchors to
Last updated June 7, 2026