working-class

1 of 2

adjective

work·​ing-class ˈwər-kiŋ-ˈklas 

: of, relating to, deriving from, or suitable to the class of wage earners

working-class virtues

a working-class family

working class

2 of 2

noun

: the class of people who work for wages usually at manual labor

Examples of working-class in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Analysts say that Burnham's upbringing and experience as mayor have influenced his politics and could help Labour win back working-class voters who have shifted toward right-wing parties in recent years. — Brittney Melton, NPR, 10 July 2026

According to reporting by the Bangor Daily News, Platner became a candidate after local union leaders reached out to him in July 2025 as someone likely to appeal to the state’s working-class voters. — Michael Loria, USA Today, 10 July 2026

Noun

But the solution is likewise complex; children who are read to are more likely to show improved literacy overtime but for many working class parents and families, time is in short supply. — Caroline Reilly, Forbes.com, 11 July 2026

Outreach to the Latino working class should stress economic dignity, not socialist ideology. — León Krauze, Washington Post, 7 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1833, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1757, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for working-class

• fiberglass
• fibreglass
• hourglass
• isinglass
• lemongrass
• martinmas
• orchardgrass
• overpass
• plexiglas
• plexiglass
• sassafras
• superclass

Kids Definition

working class

noun

: the class of people who work for wages usually in manual labor

working-class adjective