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caste

Caste (noun) – Meaning, Examples & Etymology

noun

IPA:

/kɑːst/

What does caste mean?

The system of dividing society into social classes, usually by heritage, economic status, occupation or rank.
"He belonged to the highest caste and enjoyed a privileged status."

Detailed Meaning of Caste

A caste is a social group that is defined by birth and endogamy, meaning that individuals are born into a specific caste and typically only marry within that caste. The caste system is traditionally associated with the Hindu religion, although similar systems exist in other cultures and regions. In a caste system, individuals are assigned a specific status based on their birth and the caste into which they are born, and this status determines the types of occupations, social and economic opportunities, and cultural practices that are available to them. The caste system has been criticized for perpetuating social inequality and discrimination, as those in higher castes often hold greater power, wealth, and status than those in lower castes. Despite its formal abolition in India, the caste system remains a deeply ingrained aspect of Indian society and continues to impact the lives of millions of people.

Example Sentences for Caste

1. The Indian caste system is a complex social structure.
2. Caste-based discrimination persists despite legal measures.
3. In feudal societies, caste determined one's occupation.
4. Caste prejudices can hinder social progress.
5. The caste hierarchy is deeply ingrained in Indian culture.
6. Ancient texts outline the origins of the caste system.

Origin and Etymology of Caste

The noun 'caste' has its etymological origins in the Portuguese word 'casta,' which was used during the era of European colonialism, particularly in India, to describe the social divisions and hereditary classes they encountered. 'Casta' itself is derived from the Latin word 'castus,' meaning 'pure' or 'chaste.' The term evolved in the Indian context to describe a rigid social system in which people were categorized into distinct groups based on factors like birth, occupation, economic status, and social rank. Each caste had its own set of privileges and restrictions, and mobility between castes was typically very limited. The etymology of 'caste' underscores the historical association of social divisions with the idea of purity or distinctness, reflecting the complex and deeply ingrained social structures found in various societies around the world.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the noun caste:

class

democracy

equality

egalitarianism

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Caste

1. Caste-based violence remains a pressing issue.
2. Marrying outside one's caste can be controversial.
3. The caste system's legacy spans generations.
4. Political representation is influenced by caste dynamics.
5. Caste-based quotas aim to level the playing field.
6. Economic disparities often align with caste lines.
7. The Dalit community fights for equal rights.
8. Many activists work to eradicate caste prejudice.
9. The caste system's rigidity can stifle individual aspirations.
10. Caste-based discrimination persists in rural areas.
11. Some argue that caste divisions should be abolished.
12. Caste-based clashes occasionally erupt in India.
13. The caste system's complexities challenge scholars.
14. Caste-based identity can shape one's life experiences.
15. The caste system in India divided society into rigid social hierarchies.
16. The caste system was a major source of discrimination and social inequality.
17. The caste system's origins can be traced back to ancient Indian history.
18. The caste system was abolished by law, but its effects can still be seen in society today.
19. He was raised in a caste system where his occupation and social status were predetermined by birth.
20. The caste system's rigid social hierarchy was a major obstacle to social mobility.
21. The caste system's discrimination and oppression was a major factor in the struggle for civil rights and equality.
22. The caste system's impact on Indian society has been widely debated and criticized.
23. The caste system's legacy continues to shape the social and economic realities of India.
24. The caste system's discriminatory practices were abolished by laws, but it still exists in some forms.
25. The caste system's influence on Indian culture can be seen in various aspects of daily life.