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Lumpen - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Lumpen refers to people regarded as uneducated, disorganized, or socially marginalized, often used to describe the lowest class in society. It can also imply a lack of refinement or awareness.

lumpen

/ˈlʌmpən/ /ˈlʌmpən/

Definition:

Relating to the uneducated or lower social class, often perceived as lacking refinement or ambition.

Synonyms:

proletarian, underclass, common, vulgar, coarse

Part of Speech:

adjective, noun

Antonyms:

refined, elite, sophisticated

Common Collocations:

lumpen proletariat, lumpen masses, lumpen behavior

Derivatives:

lumpenly, lumpenness

Usage Tips:

Use "lumpen" to describe people or things perceived as crude or unrefined, often in a sociological context.

Common Phrases:

lumpen proletariat, lumpen intelligentsia, lumpen lifestyle

Etymology:

Derived from German "Lumpen" (rags), referring to the disenfranchised or ragged lower class in Marxist theory.

Examples:

  • 1. The lumpen crowd gathered outside the factory.
  • 2. His lumpen manners made him stand out at the elegant party.
  • 3. She criticized the lumpen attitudes of some workers.
  • 4. The novel portrays the struggles of the lumpen underclass.

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