The expression “keeping up with the Joneses” may have originated
with the 1913 comic strip of the same name, but more likely was coined in
reference to a family of mid-19th century New York bankers known for
their conspicuous consumption.
Either way, it means envy. If my neighbors have one, then
I must have one too ... and preferably a bigger, better and glossier
model. And to keep consuming, I need more money.
Solomon had this figured out long before there were any
Joneses to keep up with.