Nabob
/ˈneɪbɒb/noun
A wealthy, influential person, especially one who is ostentatious or self-important.
Did you know?In English, a nabob originally meant a European official or rich returnee from India, and the word entered via Urdu/Hindustani from the Mughal title nawab, a ruler’s rank rather than a mere rich person.
Etymological Timeline
Persian
Persian
nāwāb / nawāb
“A high-ranking noble or provincial ruler; a title of authority.”
Urdu/Hindustani
Urdu
nawāb
“A Mughal governor or prince; a title for an important Muslim ruler.”
17th Century
English
nabob
“A nawab; specifically, a wealthy or powerful official from India.”
18th Century
English
nabob
“A rich, pompous person, especially one who had returned from India.”
Modern English
English
nabob
“A wealthy and self-important person.”