upper-class

1 of 2

adjective

up·​per-class ˌə-pər-ˈklas How to pronounce upper-class (audio)
-ˈkläs
: of, relating to, or characteristic of the upper class

upper class

2 of 2

noun

: a social class occupying a position above the middle class and having the highest status in a society

Examples of upper-class in a Sentence

Adjective upper-class boys who had an entrenched sense of entitlement Noun a popular pastime among the upper classes a member of the upper class
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
Just 20 years ago, those making $170,000 were considered upper-class. Eleanor Pringle, Fortune, 20 Aug. 2025 The Cotswolds have a rich association with a vein of upper-class establishment conservatism that is in retreat around the world. Jon Allsop, New Yorker, 15 Aug. 2025
Noun
The upper class began sporting this more elevated attire for evening events–this included dark colors like the more traditional shades of black and blue. Hannah Jackson, Vogue, 23 Aug. 2025 But they are entirely constructed and designed by the American upper class to intentionally exploit resentment of working-class white people. Kayla Gabehart, The Conversation, 14 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for upper-class

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1837, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1814, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of upper-class was in 1814

Browse Nearby Words

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Cite this Entry

“Upper-class.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/upper-class. Accessed 5 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

upper class

noun
: the highest class in society
upper-class adjective
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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