gentry — people of good social position, specifically the class below the nobility
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: people of good social position, specifically the class below the nobility
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈdʒentri/
Example Sentences
- The gentry complained that their tennis courts were too small for proper polo practice.
- The local gentry still influence political decisions in rural areas.
- She married into the gentry and learned to speak with a posh accent.
gentry
NOUN[/ˈdʒentri/]
people of good social position, specifically the class below the nobility
The local gentry gathered at the manor for the autumn hunt.
The sentry grants the gentry entry
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Old French 'genterie' meaning 'noble birth or status,' derived from 'gent' (noble), which comes from Latin 'gentilis' meaning 'of the same clan or family.' The word entered English in the 14th century to describe people of gentle or noble birth.
Breakdown
gent- (noble, from Latin gentilis) + -ry (noun suffix indicating a class or condition) = gentry
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The gentry complained that their tennis courts were too small for proper polo practice.”
“The local gentry still influence political decisions in rural areas.”
“She married into the gentry and learned to speak with a posh accent.”
“The gentry's biggest worry was whether to serve champagne or wine at their third party this week.”
📚Related Words
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