Word

classist

adjective C1

/ˈklæsɪst/

Meanings

adjective

Showing prejudice or discrimination based on social class.

adjective

Based on the belief that people from certain social classes are better or more deserving than others.

Definition

Classist describes attitudes or actions that unfairly judge or discriminate against people because of their social class.

Classist refers to prejudice, discrimination, or assumptions based on someone’s social or economic background. It often appears in comments, policies, or behaviors that treat working-class people as inferior or wealthy people as automatically more capable. The term can describe individuals, remarks, jokes, hiring decisions, or whole systems. It highlights how social class can shape opportunities and respect in everyday life.

Examples

I found the comment classist because it mocked people who can’t afford brand-name clothes.
You’re being classist if you assume someone is less intelligent because of their accent.
He was called out for classist jokes during the meeting, and he apologized immediately.
She rejected the proposal as classist, arguing it would punish low-income residents.
They described the film’s portrayal of poverty as classist and overly simplistic.

Common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse classist with classic; classist relates to social class prejudice, while classic means traditional or of high quality.