DECLASSE Meaning and
Definition
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"Declasse" is an adjective that refers to something or someone that is considered to be lower in social status or lacking refinement. The term originated in French, where it literally means "degraded" or "outclassed." In English, "declasse" describes individuals, objects, or behaviors that are seen as being beneath the expected standards of a particular social class or societal norms.
When used to describe people, "declasse" often implies a loss of prestige or a downward social mobility. It suggests that someone has fallen out of favor with their social group or has failed to maintain the expected standards of etiquette, education, or wealth. This can be due to various reasons, such as financial difficulties, changes in personal circumstances, or simply a lack of breeding.
When applied to objects or behaviors, "declasse" indicates a lack of elegance, taste, or sophistication. It suggests that something is tacky, garish, or in poor taste. For example, an individual may consider a certain fashion style or outdated home decor as being "declasse" if it does not align with their own personal standards of refined taste.
Overall, the term "declasse" is used to denote a social inferiority or a deviation from accepted social standards. It emphasizes a perceived loss of status or lack of refinement, either in individuals, objects, or behaviors.
Etymology of DECLASSE
The word "déclassé" or "declasse" is of French origin. It is derived from the verb "déclasser", which means "to downgrade" or "to lower in class". The word combines the prefix "dé-" (meaning "down" or "undoing") with the noun "classe" (meaning "class" or "rank"). When used in English, "declasse" is commonly spelled as "déclassé" to maintain the French pronunciation.
