Definition

A social class that includes people who own businesses and property, often seen as the middle class in society.

Example

The bourgeoisie played a significant role in the economic development of the country.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about the bourgeoisie and their impact on society?

Yeah, it’s interesting how they play such a big role in shaping our culture.

Right? Sometimes I feel like they create so many expectations for the rest of us.

Absolutely, it can be really overwhelming trying to keep up with those standards.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Bourgeoisie** → The word originates from Old French *bourgeois*, meaning a town dweller or citizen, derived from *burgeis* (meaning inhabitant of a town) and the suffix *-ie* (indicating a collective or state). The term 'bourgeoisie' refers to the social class of people who own the means of production in a capitalist society, typically characterized by their materialistic values and conventional attitudes.

Memory Tip

Think of 'bourgeois' as someone who lives in a town, and the '-ie' indicates a group or class. This helps you remember that 'bourgeoisie' refers to the class of town dwellers or the middle class.

Visually Confused Words