A very important person (VIP or V.I.P.) or personage[1] is a person who is accorded special privileges due to their high social rank, status, influence, or importance.[2][3] The term was not common until sometime after World War II when it was popularised by Royal Air Force pilots.[1][additional citation(s) needed]
Examples include celebrities, heads of state or government, other high-ranking politicians, or any other socially notable person who receives special treatment for any reason.[3] The special treatment usually involves separation from common people, and a higher level of comfort or service.[4]