classism

American  

[klas-iz-uhm] / ˈklæs ɪz əm /

noun

1. a biased or discriminatory attitude based on distinctions made between social or economic classes.

2. the viewing of society as being composed of distinct classes.

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classism British  

/ ˈklɑːsɪzəm /

noun

1. the belief that people from certain social or economic classes are superior to others

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Other Word Forms

• classist
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of classism

First recorded in 1835–45; class + -ism

Explanation

Classism is discriminating against people because of how much money they have, their level of education, or the kind of job they do. Assuming someone is poor because they're too lazy to work is an example of classism. Classism, like racism and sexism, shows up in an individual's prejudice against poor or uneducated people but also affects government policies, company hiring, college admissions, and more. The fact that wealthy citizens have more power to influence politics than poorer people is a form of institutional classism. And if you think people who own mansions are better than those living in tiny apartments, or that a lawyer is smarter than an electrician or plumber, that's also the result of classism.

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

classism

"I don't think viewers are simply passive consumers. Many people watch Love Island critically and debate issues like sexism, classism and racism, so the programme both reflects and shapes contemporary dating culture."

From BBC ● Jul. 25, 2026

Between the six of you, you’re touching on some powerful and risky themes in the series that you’re working on, whether it’s sexism, classism, delusional power, grief.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 16, 2026

So, at a glance, the NaNoWriMo statement seems to be coming from an inclusive place, citing that A.I. can help address classism, ableism, and general access issues.

From Slate ● Sep. 11, 2024

Mary defied her era’s Southern Belle stereotypes, rejecting racism and classism in favor of everyday advocacy for equality.

From New York Times ● Apr. 19, 2023

Racism, sexism, classism, ableism, anti-LGBTQ prejudice and all other forms of systemic discrimination can ultimately be traced back to these tendencies.

From Salon ● Jan. 19, 2023