gentry
|gen-try|
B2
/ˈdʒɛntri/
upper social class
Etymology
Etymology Information
'gentry' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'genterie,' where 'gent' meant 'noble' or 'well-born.'
Historical Evolution
'genterie' transformed into the Middle English word 'gentrie,' and eventually became the modern English word 'gentry'.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'nobility or noble birth,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'people of good social position.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
people of good social position, specifically (in the UK) the class of people next below the nobility in position and birth.
The gentry often held significant influence in rural communities.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45