A socialite is a person (male or female, but more often used of a woman) of social prominence, considered to be an influential social figure. Their impact derives not so much from their artistic realisations (then they would be known primarily as author or performer, etc...) or from their official social stature (then they would be called politician, industrialist, etc...), as from their less-tangible ability to dominate the social scene and use personal charisma to achieve prominence. The term socialite may be used as one of several descriptive adjectives, as 'author, entrepreneur and socialite', but is perhaps most often used of a promiment person who does not easily fit into any other category.

Philanthrophy, style, beauty, intelligence, artistic predisposition, raconteur ability and wealth are some of the reasons why socialites are attractive, inspiring or persuasive. They are the hosts or invited guests at all kinds of major social events.

Examples of well-known socialites are Howard Hughes, Quentin Crisp, Violet Trefusis, Daisy Fellowes, Misia Edwards, Ottoline Morrell, C. Z. Guest, Catherine Oxenberg, Paris Hilton and Lady Victoria Hervey.