underclass

noun

un·​der·​class ˈən-dər-ˌklas How to pronounce underclass (audio)
: the lowest social stratum usually made up of disadvantaged minority groups

Examples of underclass in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Over time, that would mean creating a permanent underclass that grows with every generation. Andy Greene, Rolling Stone, 23 Mar. 2026 The skills that could lift you out of the new permanent underclass are not the skills that mattered before. Sam Kriss, Harpers Magazine, 24 Feb. 2026 Low-wage jobs are creating a permanent underclass of families who deserve better. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 Feb. 2026 Then there is the ubiquitous underclass. Mery Mogollon, Los Angeles Times, 30 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for underclass

Word History

First Known Use

1863, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of underclass was in 1863

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Cite this Entry

“Underclass.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/underclass. Accessed 29 Mar. 2026.

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