The word "outcaste" is a noun that refers to a person who is cast out or rejected by society. Its correct spelling includes the use of the letter "e" at the end, to differentiate it from the adjective "outcast". In IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet), the spelling of "outcaste" is /aʊtˈkæst/ where the stressed syllable is on the second syllable "cas". The diphthong "au" indicates the sound of "ow" as in "now", while "a" represents the short sound of "a" as in "cat". The final "e" is silent and not pronounced.
Outcaste refers to a person who is socially or culturally ostracized or excluded from their community based on their lower social status or caste. This term is predominantly used in the context of the caste system, which is a traditional social hierarchy prevalent in some South Asian societies. In these societies, individuals are assigned to specific castes based on their birth, with each caste having its own distinct social standing and occupations.
An outcaste, or "untouchable" as they were previously known, belongs to the lowest rung of the caste ladder. They are considered impure or polluted, thereby being excluded from various social, religious, and economic activities. Outcastes often face discrimination, prejudice, and limited opportunities due to their low social status.
Historically, outcastes were assigned vocations viewed as impure or "dirty" by upper castes, such as handling human waste or working with dead animals. This led to their segregation from mainstream society and their exclusion from many aspects of social life. However, with changing times, legal reforms, and social movements, the stigma associated with being an outcaste has diminished, and affirmative action policies have been implemented to uplift their socio-economic conditions.
In conclusion, an outcaste is an individual who is marginalized, alienated, and oppressed due to their low social status within the caste system. The term reflects the discrimination and exclusion faced by these individuals, though efforts have been made to address their social disparities and promote greater inclusivity and equality.
The word "outcaste" originated in the early 19th century and is derived from the combination of two words: "out" and "caste".
"Out" is a common English word that means outside or beyond.
"Caste" comes from the Portuguese word "casta" meaning "breed", which later acquired the meaning of social classes in the Indian caste system. The caste system is a hierarchical social structure prevalent in South Asia, particularly in India, where people are divided into distinct groups based on their birth and occupation.
When these two words are combined, "outcaste" refers to someone who has been intentionally excluded or exiled from their caste, often as a result of breaking societal norms or rules. It denotes an individual who no longer belongs to or is accepted within their original caste.