土豪
What Does 土豪 Mean?
Think of "土豪" as China's version of 'new money' with extra flair. Emerging around 2013, it describes someone who is loaded but loud — splashing cash on gold iPhones, bottle service, and designer knockoffs all at once. The term started as gentle mockery of the newly rich who hadn't quite caught up culturally, but quickly became a badge of humor. Friends call each other "土豪" when someone picks up the tab without blinking. It's equal parts roast and affection.
Origin Story
Originally meant rural despots or local bullies in pre-Communist China. After China's economic boom, it was repurposed to describe the newly wealthy — especially those who spent extravagantly without taste. A 2013 iPhone gold edition triggered a viral wave of '土豪金' (nouveau riche gold) jokes.
Cultural Context
China's rapid economic boom created a wave of first-generation millionaires in the 2000s–2010s. Wealth arrived faster than cultural capital, producing a visible class of big spenders with flashy tastes. The Apple launch of a gold iPhone 5s in 2013 became a flashpoint — memes begged 土豪 strangers to 'be friends.' The word crystallized widespread mixed feelings about inequality, aspiration, and the quirks of sudden prosperity. The term originated and spread primarily on Weibo.
Similar Expressions in English
Closer to 'nouveau riche' or 'new money' than simply 'rich.' Like the English 'bougie' but more extreme — think someone who buys a Lamborghini but eats instant noodles.
How Is It Used?
Chinese Explanation (中文解释)
指暴发户式的有钱人，财大气粗、品味俗气，也用于自嘲或戏称朋友大方消费。