working-class

1 of 2

adjective

work·​ing-class ˈwər-kiŋ-ˈklas How to pronounce working-class (audio)
Synonyms of working-classnext
: of, relating to, deriving from, or suitable to the class of wage earners
working-class virtues
a working-class family

working class

2 of 2

noun

: the class of people who work for wages usually at manual labor

Examples of working-class in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
Canary Wharf, formerly grim docks and working-class housing blocks in eastern London, has been transformed into a mammoth global commercial center. Arthur I. Cyr, Chicago Tribune, 28 Apr. 2026 The son of former prime minister Pierre Trudeau, he was often criticized as being out of touch with working-class Canadians, a perception that contributed to mounting political pressure toward the end of his time in office. Preston Fore, Fortune, 28 Apr. 2026
Noun
People born into working class households in the 1840s should have been doing well in the 1870s. Edward Lotterman, Twin Cities, 26 Apr. 2026 The love affair Europe has for pigeon racing began in the 1800s and grew into a working class sport. Sharyn Alfonsi, CBS News, 26 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for working-class

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1833, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1757, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of working-class was in 1757

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Cite this Entry

“Working-class.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/working-class. Accessed 4 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

working class

noun
: the class of people who work for wages usually in manual labor
working-class adjective

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