mudsill Definition
- 1a person or group of people regarded as contemptible or lowly
- 2a lower class that is dependent on the work of others for their livelihood
Using mudsill: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "mudsill" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The wealthy businessman looked down on the working class as mere mudsills.
Example
The idea of a permanent mudsill underclass is a myth perpetuated by those in power.
Example
The concept of a mudsill class has been used to justify exploitation throughout history.
mudsill Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for mudsill
- underclass
- proletariat
- lower class
Antonyms for mudsill
- elite
- upper class
Phrases with mudsill
a political and social theory that suggests that there must be a lower class to support the upper classes
Example
The mudsill theory was used to justify slavery in the United States.
a speech given by James Henry Hammond in which he defended slavery and the mudsill theory
Example
The mudsill speech was met with controversy and criticism.
a political system in which the lower classes are excluded from political power and decision-making
Example
Mudsill democracy was prevalent in many countries throughout history.
Origins of mudsill
from mud + sill, referring to a foundation made of mud and logs
Summary: mudsill in Brief
'Mudsill' [muhd-sil] refers to a person or group of people considered lowly or contemptible, often used to describe a lower class that depends on the work of others for their livelihood. It is associated with the 'mudsill theory,' which justifies the existence of a lower class to support the upper classes. The term is often used in political and social contexts, such as 'mudsill democracy.'
