Gentry Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฉ
gentry
[หdสษntri ]
Definition
social class
People of good social position, specifically (in the UK) the class of people next below the nobility in position and birth.
Synonyms
aristocracy, nobility, upper class.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| gentry |
The term 'gentry' is typically used to describe people of good social position situated below the nobility but above the common people, typically landed gentry owning estates.
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| nobility |
'Nobility' is used to specifically denote people who hold noble titles granted by a monarch, such as dukes, earls, and barons. It highlights formal recognition of high social status.
|
| upper class |
'Upper class' is more broadly used to describe people who are wealthy and powerful, regardless of their titles. It often refers to contemporary society.
|
| aristocracy |
'Aristocracy' refers to the highest class in certain societies, especially those holding hereditary titles or offices. It conveys a sense of historical grandeur and high status.
|
Examples of usage
- The gentry owned most of the land in the parish.
- Members of the gentry were expected to behave with decorum and dignity.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word 'gentry' comes from the Old French term 'gent' meaning 'noble' or 'well-born', reflecting its early connections to noble status.
- In England, the gentry emerged during the medieval period, distinguished from the aristocracy, as landowners who were not part of the royal family.
- The English Civil War (17th century) saw the rise of the gentry as landowners gained political power, leading to a transformation in societal structures.
Social Structure
- During the Victorian era, the gentry played a significant role in shaping English society, influencing everything from politics to culture.
- The term 'gentry' is often associated with a specific set of privileges and responsibilities, including land stewardship and local leadership roles.
- Some gentry families can trace their lineage back hundreds of years, maintaining estates and titles that underscore their historical significance.
Cultural References
- Literature from the 18th and 19th centuries often depicted the gentry as snobbish or out of touch, serving as social commentary on class distinctions.
- Modern media sometimes portrays gentry figures in comedies or dramas, highlighting their quirks and lifestyle contrasts with common folk.
- British societyโs fascination with the gentry is reflected in reality shows and documentaries that explore their estates and traditions.
Economic Influence
- The gentry historically had significant economic power due to landownership, influencing agricultural practices and local economies.
- In contemporary contexts, remnants of gentry influence can be seen in rural areas where local gentry still own vast tracts of land and maintain community ties.
- The decline of the gentry in some regions correlates with industrialization, as cities grew and altered traditional economic structures.
Global Perspectives
- While often associated with Britain, gentry-like classes exist in various cultures worldwide, reflecting similar structures of wealth and land ownership.
- In Russia, a similar social class known as ' dvoryanstvo' emerged during the nobility's rise in the 18th century, paralleling the English gentry in status.
- Colonial systems often created a gentry class within overseas territories, leading to unique cultural blends and socio-economic dynamics.
Origin of 'gentry'
The term 'gentry' originated in England during the Middle Ages, referring to the social class below the nobility. Members of the gentry were typically landowners who held a high social status but were not part of the aristocracy. Over time, the concept of gentry evolved to include individuals of good social position and birth. The gentry played a significant role in English society, particularly in rural areas where they owned land and held influence. Today, the term is still used to describe a certain social class in various countries.