# gatsby

/ˈɡætsbi/ (US) · CEFR C2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/gatsby
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

describing someone who is very rich and spends a lot of money on big, fancy parties to impress others. It comes from a famous book character who lived a very expensive lifestyle.

For teachers: reminiscent of the lifestyle or character of Jay Gatsby, particularly regarding ostentatious wealth, lavish social gatherings, and a self-made persona. Often used to describe extravagant parties or a specific type of American upper-class decadence.

## Examples

- They threw a Gatsby party with jazz music and champagne.
- The tech mogul's Gatsby lifestyle included a massive estate and weekly galas for the city's elite.
- The gala was described as truly Gatsby in its scale, featuring a full orchestra, vintage cars, and a guest list that spanned the entire social register.

## Usage notes

- Typically used as an adjective to modify nouns like 'party', 'lifestyle', or 'estate'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.