1. a system of beliefs found in the South Pacific islands, based on the notion that ritual worship will result in the attainment of modern material goods through supernatural means. It originated in indigenous religious practices in the 19th century and was altered, stimulated, and broadened from contact with Western cultures during World War II, when military forces stationed in the islands received regular deliveries of goods by air.

2. the naive assumption that a superficial imitation of the manners, behavior, or style of influential or prosperous groups in society will bring one comparable wealth or status.