reverse snobbery

[ri-vurs snahb-uh-ree]

noun

1. the denigration or shunning of people with higher ability, education, or social status, or of their tastes, work, etc., as an expression of sympathy or solidarity with people perceived as average or unprivileged.

Example Sentences

“He didn’t feel it was dignified. I am well aware that this is a form of reverse snobbery.”

From Seattle Times

But a certain reverse snobbery attaches itself to salad cream.

From The Guardian

“I think there’s such a reverse snobbery about intellectuals that I think it would almost be seen as a badge of honor. I think that’s really concerning.”

From Washington Times

Reverse snobbery, unlike the traditional kind, is a tribute to democracy—it's egalitarianism overshooting the mark.

From Slate

But when you're faking it, if you're not careful, reverse snobbery can look a lot like the traditional kind.

From Slate