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
See caste defined for English-language learners
See caste defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of CASTE
Portuguese casta, literally, race, lineage, from feminine of casto pure, chaste, from Latin castus
CASTEISM 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
Learn More About CASTE
Browse
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up caste? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).