Dictionary

put on the ritz en · VERB

Pronunciation

• (Australia) audio

Etymology

Evokes the image of putting on extravagent clothing worthy of the luxurious Ritz Hotel in London, opened in 1906. Phrase in print by 1921.

Meanings

1. (idiomatic) to make a show of luxury and extravagance
   • The whole gang has put on the Ritz and are strutting about like a collection of pouter pigeons. 1921 May 26, Chicago Daily Tribune:
   • "One of the most beautiful hotels to open in Florida in recent years, the Ritz-Carlton puts on the ritz but in subtle style, illustrating elegance without shouting about it." 1989, Marylyn Springer, Arthur Frommer, Frommer's Guide to Florida, 1990 - Page 465:
   • If you're blue and you don't know Where to go to Why don't you go where Harlem sits Puttin' on the Ritz. Spangled gowns Upon a bevy Of high browns From down the Levee, all misfits Puttin' on the Ritz. 1929, Irving Berlin, “Puttin' on the Ritz”:

Forms