The upper class
Example: The upper class historically controlled most of the nation's wealth.
Definition
"The upper class" refers to the social group that holds the highest status in society, typically characterized by wealth, influence, and privilege. This group often controls significant economic resources and political power, shaping cultural and societal norms throughout history.
Etymology
The term "the upper class" combines 'upper,' meaning higher in position or rank, with 'class,' derived from Latin 'classis,' originally meaning a group or division. The phrase emerged to describe the societal elite who occupied the top tier of social hierarchy, especially prominent in historical contexts.
Learn to use this word actively
"The upper class" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - History - (C1) - set 1", containing 198 commonly used words.
Would you like to not only understand these words, but also remember them and use them actively? Create a free account and select English as the language you want to learn.
Create a free account