セレブ

せれぶ
noun
wealthy/glamorous person; celebrity
colloquialperson
1. wealthy/glamorous person; celebrity
A famous person, or more commonly in Japanese, someone who is wealthy, fashionable, and lives a luxurious lifestyle. The meaning has shifted from the English "celebrity" to emphasize wealth and glamour over fame.
I dream of living a glamorous lifestyle.
That neighborhood is known for being home to many wealthy people.
彼女(かのじょ)セレブ御用達(ごようたし)ブランドばかり()につけている。
She only wears brands favored by the rich and glamorous.

Meaning shift

While derived from English "celebrity," セレブ in Japanese emphasizes wealth and luxury rather than just fame. A セレブ is someone who lives extravagantly — think designer clothes, expensive restaurants, and high-end neighborhoods. A famous comedian would not typically be called a セレブ unless they also project a wealthy image.

Usage

Often used as a quasi-adjective with な: セレブな生活(せいかつ) (a glamorous lifestyle), セレブな雰囲気(ふんいき) (a high-class atmosphere).

Common collocations