Rockefeller

English

Etymology 1

From the German place name Rockenfeld.

Proper noun

Rockefeller

1. An American surname from German.
2. American capitalist. Founder, leader, and owner of Standard Oil Company.

Derived terms

• Rockefelleresque
• Rockefellerian

Etymology 2

From John D. Rockefeller, the American industrialist who founded Standard Oil, also recognized for his 20th century philanthropy.

Noun

Rockefeller (plural Rockefellers)

1. A very rich person.
   • 1970, Donald Kaul, How to Light a Water Heater and Other War Stories, page 127:

     "You don't have to be a Rockefeller to have an air conditioner," she said.

   • 1998, Kirk Jones, Waking Ned, Tomboy films:

     Annie: You're acting like you won the lotto yourself.
     Jackie: Aye, aye, Rockefeller, that's me.