CASTE Meaning and
Definition
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Caste refers to a social system that divides society into distinct groups based on hereditary factors such as birth, occupation, and social rank. Caste is primarily associated with traditional Hindu society in India, although similar systems are found in other parts of the world as well.
In a caste system, individuals are born into a specific caste and remain in that caste throughout their lives. The concept of purity and pollution plays a significant role in caste, shaping the rules and customs within each group. Castes are often ranked in a hierarchical order, with some castes considered superior to others.
Caste determines an individual's occupation, social interactions, and even potential marriage partners. Each caste is associated with certain occupations, and members are expected to fulfill their hereditary duties. Social mobility between castes is extremely limited, with marriage and social interactions generally restricted to within one's own caste. Discrimination and unequal treatment based on caste is also a common feature of such systems.
Caste systems have been critiqued for promoting social inequality, reinforcing discrimination, and limiting individual freedom. However, efforts have been made to address these issues, such as the introduction of affirmative action policies to promote social justice and equality.
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A name applied to each of the four classes into which the Hindoos are divided; a class or circle of persons in any community who chiefly hold intercourse within their own limits.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for CASTE *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for CASTE
Etymology of CASTE
The word "caste" originates from the Portuguese term "casta", which emerged during the 16th century. The Portuguese term was derived from the Latin word "castus", meaning "pure" or "chaste". Initially, "casta" was used to classify individuals into distinct social groups based on race, ancestry, and occupation in the Portuguese colonies, particularly in India. Eventually, this term was adopted and expanded upon in English and other languages to refer to rigid social stratification systems found in various societies around the world.
Idioms with the word CASTE
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lose caste
The idiom "lose caste" refers to the loss of social status or reputation within a particular group or community. It implies a decline in one's standing, often as a result of one's actions, behavior, or choices that are perceived as dishonorable, improper, or lacking in integrity.
Similar spelling words for CASTE
- caseate,
- casto,
- paste,
- chaste,
- cast,
- cassite,
- casts,
- caicedo,
- cassette,
- Cassady,
- taste,
- haste,
- coast,
- castle,
- cased,
- waste,
- Cassidy,
- cashed,
- cost,
- cachet,
- case,
- baste,
- Cassity,
- casket.
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