Definition

To change a person or group so that they become part of the working class, often losing their previous social status or economic power.

Example

The new policies aimed to proletarianize the middle class, making them more reliant on wage labor.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about the new policy they're trying to implement?

Yeah, it sounds like it might proletarianize a lot of workers.

I wonder how that would affect job security for everyone involved.

It could really change the landscape of the industry for sure.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Proletarianize → It is formed from "proletarian" (from Latin *proletarius*, meaning belonging to the lowest class of citizens) and "-ize" (a suffix used to form verbs meaning to make or to become). The word means to make or become proletarian, often referring to the process of adopting the characteristics or status of the working class.

Memory Tip

Think of 'proletarian' as someone from the lowest class, and '-ize' means to make or become. So, to 'proletarianize' means to become part of that working class.

Visually Confused Words