conspicuous consumption

This term describes a specific sociological behavior where the primary motivation for purchasing luxury items is the public signaling of wealth rather than the utility of the product. It carries a critical or judgmental connotation, often implying vanity, wastefulness, or a desperate need for social validation.

In academic and economic contexts, it is used as a technical term to analyze class dynamics and consumer behavior. In casual conversation, it is typically used to criticize the ostentatious display of riches, such as buying a supercar solely to be seen in it, rather than for its performance.