Person of low social status who appears to be of a higher status. The derogatory and classist expression is an Americanism originated in the eighteenth century in the wearers of beaver hats of center hair more expensive and half hair cheaper. Half-haired hats were worn by those who aspired to the upper class. The expression is also used on this side of the pond to designate the person of little worth, merit or condition whether it is overvalued, most often, or not.
