upper class — the social group that has the highest status in society, typically having great wealth, power, and privilege
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: the social group that has the highest status in society, typically having great wealth, power, and privilege
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈʌpər klæs/
Example Sentences
- Upper class mobility has decreased significantly in recent decades.
- He pretended to be upper class but couldn't tell the difference between caviar and fish eggs from the convenience store.
- The upper class children learned three languages before they could properly tie their shoes.
upper class
NOUN[/ˈʌpər klæs/]
the social group that has the highest status in society, typically having great wealth, power, and privilege

The upper class arrives at the opera in silk gowns and chauffeured cars.

Through crystal glass, the common people pass
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The word 'upper' comes from Old English and Latin origins, meaning 'higher in position or rank.' 'Class' derives from Latin 'classis,' originally referring to groups of Roman citizens divided by wealth. Together, the term emerged in 18th-century English to describe the highest social stratum.
Breakdown
upper (higher in position or rank) + class (a group or category, from Latin classis) = upper class (the highest social group in society)
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“Upper class mobility has decreased significantly in recent decades.”
“He pretended to be upper class but couldn't tell the difference between caviar and fish eggs from the convenience store.”
“The upper class children learned three languages before they could properly tie their shoes.”
“The upper class district was filled with mansions that had more bathrooms than most people have rooms.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
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