proletary

[ proh-li-ter-ee ]

adjective

, plural pro·le·tar·ies.

1. proletarian.

Word History and Origins

Origin of proletary¹

1570–80; < Latin prōlētārius belonging to the lowest class of Roman citizens, i.e., those who contributed to the state only through their offspring, equivalent to prōlēt- (akin to prōlēs offspring; pro- pro- ¹ + -olēs ( adult )) + -ārius -ary

Example Sentences

"Therefore, as I was about to say, the proletary draws to himself the money of the country," resumed Grossetete.

From Project Gutenberg

It was for five hundred dollars, and the proletary's hand shook when he dipped the pen.

From Project Gutenberg

Whether proletary or not, there was nothing about him to offend the taste of the best-born of ladies.

From Project Gutenberg

Bartrow went back to his mine, and with his going the doors of the St. James's dining-room opened no more to the proletary.

From Project Gutenberg

"Naturally," said Lansdale, having in mind the proletary's later reincarnations as vagrant and starveling.

From Project Gutenberg