A gentleman/lady of leisure
noun
A man or woman who has enough money so they don't need to work, and spends their time enjoying themselves.
Since she won the lottery, she has become a lady of leisure.
Often appears as...
- become a gentleman/lady of leisure
- live like a gentleman/lady of leisure
Usage tips
Idiomatic
noun
A man or woman who has enough money so they don't need to work, and spends their time enjoying themselves.
Since she won the lottery, she has become a lady of leisure.
Often appears as...
- become a gentleman/lady of leisure
- live like a gentleman/lady of leisure
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Historical Context
Originally described wealthy individuals not needing to work, often in British aristocracy.
In historical novels, characters are often portrayed as gentlemen of leisure.
Pro Tip 2/3Modern Nuance
Today, it may imply someone who is well-off but it's also used humorously for anyone relaxing.
On vacation, I'm just a gentleman of leisure, no emails or calls.
Pro Tip 3/3Cultural Perception
Some may view a 'gentleman of leisure' negatively as lazy or unproductive.
My neighbor calls himself a gentleman of leisure, but others see him as idle.
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