class-based
Meaning
Determined by or dependent on social or economic class.
Organized or divided according to social class.
Structure
Usage
The school system was criticized for its class-based admissions policy.
The analysis revealed a deeply class-based structure within the society.
His views are often seen as class-based rather than purely ideological.
Etymology
The term is a modern English compound, formed by combining the noun 'class' with the adjective 'based'. The word 'class' entered English in the 16th century from Latin classis, which originally referred to a summoning or division of the Roman people, particularly for military or taxation purposes. This evolved to signify a rank or order in society. The element 'based' derives from the verb 'base', itself from Old French baser and ultimately Latin basis (foundation, pedestal), from Greek basis (a step, pedestal). The compound 'class-based' logically constructs its meaning by indicating something that is founded upon or determined by social class distinctions, a concept that gained particular prominence in sociological discourse from the 19th century onward.
Analysis
- class: From Latin classis (a division, fleet, class of citizens). In this compound, it functions as a noun denoting a social or economic rank. - based: From the English verb base (to found or establish) + the past participle suffix -ed. In this compound, it functions as an adjective-forming element meaning "having as a basis or foundation."