gentry Definition
people of good social position, specifically the class of people next below the nobility in position and birth.
Using gentry: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "gentry" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The gentry of the town were invited to the ball.
Example
The gentry owned most of the land in the area.
Example
He was born into the gentry and inherited a large estate.
Example
The gentry were known for their lavish parties and extravagant lifestyles.
gentry Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for gentry
- aristocracy
- nobility
- elite
- upper class
Antonyms for gentry
- peasantry
- lower class
- working class
Idioms Using gentry
a phrase used to describe the trustworthiness and reliability of the gentry
Example
In those days, a gentry's word was his bond, and people trusted them implicitly.
Example
He's a real gentry cove, always polite and well-dressed.
gentryfication
the process of an area becoming gentrified, or inhabited by the gentry
Example
The gentryfication of the neighborhood led to higher property values and increased demand for luxury goods and services.
Phrases with gentry
country gentry
the landed gentry who live in rural areas
Example
The country gentry were known for their love of hunting and horse riding.
Example
The minor gentry were not as wealthy as the major gentry, but still enjoyed a comfortable lifestyle.
Example
The gentry class was known for their education, manners, and refinement.
Origins of gentry
from Old French 'genterie', meaning 'nobility of birth'
Summary: gentry in Brief
'Gentry' [ˈdʒɛntri] refers to people of good social position, particularly those just below the nobility in terms of status and birth. It describes a class of people who are known for their wealth, education, and refinement. Examples include 'The gentry of the town were invited to the ball.' and 'He was born into the gentry and inherited a large estate.' Phrases like 'country gentry' and idioms like 'gentry's word is his bond' further illustrate the concept.