underclass
|un/der/class|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈʌndərˌklæs/
🇬🇧
/ˈʌndəˌklɑːs/
lower social group
Etymology
Etymology Information
'underclass' originates from English, combining 'under' meaning 'below' and 'class' referring to a social group.
Historical Evolution
'underclass' was formed in modern English by combining 'under' and 'class' to describe a lower social group.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it referred to a lower social group, and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a social group that is economically disadvantaged and marginalized, often lacking access to resources and opportunities.
The government is implementing policies to support the underclass.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41