Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
bourgeoisie
noun
/bʊrʒwɑːˈziː/
Definition
The bourgeoisie refers to the social class that is primarily associated with owning the means of production in a capitalist society.
Examples
- The bourgeoisie played a critical role in the development of modern capitalist economies.
- In Marxist theory, the bourgeoisie are contrasted with the proletariat, or working class.
- The bourgeois lifestyle often emphasizes material wealth and social status.
Meaning
This term is often used to describe the wealthy middle class, who are typically involved in business and industry, and who hold significant cultural and economic power.
Synonyms
- middle class
- capitalists
- commercial class
