Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • A surname of historical significance: "Astor" primarily refers to members of a prominent family known for wealth and influence, particularly in 19th and early 20th-century America and Britain. The name is associated with achievements in business, politics, and society.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • John Jacob Astor founded a fur trading empire. (This refers to the American capitalist.)
  • Nancy Astor was the first woman to serve as a Member of Parliament in the UK. (This refers to the British politician.)
  • The Astor family owned considerable property in New York.

Advanced Usage

• "Astor" as a metonym: The name is sometimes used to refer to great wealth or social prominence derived from the family's legacy.
  • He made an Astor-like fortune in the new industry. (He made a fortune comparable to that of the Astor family.)

Variants and Related Words

• Astoria (n): A place name, such as a neighborhood in New York City, named after John Jacob Astor.
• Astor Place (n): A major street and public square in Manhattan, New York, named for the Astor family.

Synonyms

• Magnate: A wealthy and influential person, especially in business.
• Tycoon: A wealthy, powerful person in business or industry.

Notes on Meaning

The word "Astor" is almost exclusively a proper noun referring to specific historical individuals or their family. It is not used as a common noun. The two most famous bearers of the name are: 1. John Jacob Astor (1763-1848): An American businessman and investor who created a monopoly in the fur trade and later in real estate. 2. Nancy Astor (1879-1964): An American-born British politician who was the first woman to sit as a Member of Parliament in the House of Commons.

Noun

1. United States capitalist (born in Germany) who made a fortune in fur trading (1763-1848)
2. British politician (born in the United States) who was the first woman to sit in the British House of Commons (1879-1964)