First Known Use: 1613
Dictionary
caste
noun \ˈkast also ˈkäst\
: one of the classes into which the Hindu people of India were traditionally divided
: a division of society based upon differences of wealth, rank, or occupation
Full Definition of CASTE
1
: one of the hereditary social classes in Hinduism that restrict the occupation of their members and their association with the members of other castes
2
a : a division of society based on differences of wealth, inherited rank or privilege, profession, occupation, or race b : the position conferred by caste standing : prestige
3
: a system of rigid social stratification characterized by hereditary status, endogamy, and social barriers sanctioned by custom, law, or religion
4
: a specialized form (as the worker of an ant or bee) of a polymorphic social insect that carries out a particular function in the colony
— caste·ism \ˈkas-ˌti-zəm\ noun
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Origin of CASTE
Portuguese casta, literally, race, lineage, from feminine of casto pure, chaste, from Latin castus
CASTE Defined for Kids
caste
noun \ˈkast\
Definition of CASTE for Kids
1
: one of the classes into which the Hindu people of India were formerly divided
2
: a division or class of society based on wealth, rank, or occupation
3
: social rank : prestige
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