Definition

The social class made up of small farmers and laborers who work the land, often with low social status.

Example

The peasantry played a crucial role in the agricultural economy of the region.

Conversation

I was reading a book about the history of the peasantry in Europe.

That sounds interesting! What did you learn?

It talked about how their lives were so different from the nobility.

I can imagine — it's fascinating to see how social classes have changed.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Peasantry → It is formed from "peasant" (from Old French *paisant*, meaning a country dweller or farmer) and the suffix "-ry" (meaning a collective or state of). The word "peasantry" refers to the collective class of rural laborers or farmers.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'country dweller' ('peasant') and how the '-ry' suffix indicates a group or state. This helps you remember that 'peasantry' refers to the collective group of farmers or rural laborers.

Visually Confused Words