Phrase Finder

Young upstart

Posted by Victoria S Dennis February 10, 2008 at 17:23:In reply to Young upstart posted by Stuart Mitchell on February 10, 2008 at 17:23:

What is the origin of the phrase/saying "young upstart"?

It isn't a "phrase", as such. An "upstart", ever since the mid-16th century, has meant "someone who has newly or suddenly risen in position, rank, or importance". Upstarts can be of any age; if they are young, they are "young upstarts". (VSD)

Replies