old-money
UK[ˈəʊld ˌmʌni]US[ˈoʊld ˌmʌni]
n
Wealth that has been inherited through several generations of a family, often associated with established social status and traditional, discreet habits.
n
People or families possessing such inherited wealth and the associated social background.
Morpheme Breakdown
old
money
old
adjective
money
noun
Etymology
The compound term 'old-money' is a relatively modern formation, emerging in the early 20th century as a direct counterpoint to 'new money.' Its logic is transparently literal: 'old' signifies long-established, traditional, and inherited, while 'money' represents wealth and capital. The phrase encapsulates a social distinction, where 'old' does not merely describe the age of currency but metaphorically extends to the lineage, heritage, and the presumed subtle behavioral codes (like understated consumption) associated with wealth passed down through generations. It contrasts with 'new money,' which implies recently acquired wealth, often viewed as more conspicuous and lacking in established social pedigree.
Analysis
Structure: old (adjective) + money (noun)
- old: From Old English eald, meaning "aged, ancient, mature." It functions as an adjective modifying the noun 'money'.
- money: From Old French moneie, meaning "coin, currency; change," ultimately from Latin moneta (mint, coinage). It functions as the core noun in the compound.
Examples
The university's board of trustees is still dominated by families with old-money connections.
She has an old-money elegance, preferring tailored classics over flashy designer logos.
The tension between the tech industry's new money and the city's old-money establishment is palpable.