Definitions

middle class

[mid-l klas] / ˈmɪd l ˈklæs /

NOUN

neither the nobility nor laboring class

Synonyms

STRONG

bourgeois bourgeoisie burgherdom educated class middle order middle-income group

NOUN

an economic class perceived as average

Synonyms

STRONG

Middle America hoi polloi middle order middle-income group ordinary people plain folks proletariat working class

ADJECTIVE

characteristic of the middle class

Synonyms

WEAK

bourgeois conformist conventional ordinary square traditional

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But as inflation has pushed up incomes, most folks who now pay the taxes are solidly middle class.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 14, 2026

As nominal wages continue to increase, the middle class will make up an ever larger share of those who pay the net investment tax.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 14, 2026

You see some acts canceling tours, which is a bit systemic, but you’re also not seeing all the things behind that decision — the erosion of the middle class of artists and higher expenses.

From Los Angeles Times • May 12, 2026

And that drop came from all cohorts — the rich, the middle class and the poor.

From MarketWatch • May 8, 2026

A family squarely in the middle class may own a flat- screen television, drive a BMW, and indulge a taste for expensive chocolate.

From "Class Matters" by The New York Times

middle class

Example Sentences

Related Words