Proletariat

/ˌprɒləˈtɛəriət/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The social class consisting of people who do manual labor or work for wages, especially in industrial occupations; often contrasted with the bourgeoisie.

In Marxist theory, the proletariat is seen as the revolutionary class that will overthrow the bourgeoisie.

Members of the working class who do not own the means of production and must sell their labor to survive.

The plight of the proletariat during industrialization brought about significant social reforms.

A term used to describe the collective interests and struggles of the working class.

Labor unions were formed to advocate for the rights of the proletariat in the face of corporate exploitation.

Etymology

From Latin 'proletarius', meaning 'of or pertaining to the lowest class of citizens'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

proletarian revolution

A revolution led by the working class against the ruling bourgeoisie.

proletariat dictatorship

A state in which the proletariat holds political power, commonly in Marxist theory.

Related Words

bourgeoisie

The social class that owns the means of production in a capitalist society.

working class

A social class consisting of those who work for wages, especially in manual or industrial work.

Slang Meanings

Prole

He's just a prole, working nine to five.

Prolet

The prolet are pushing for better wages.