gentry

[ˈdʒɛntri]

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

• gentry's word is his bond

  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.

• gentry cove

  a gentleman

  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.

• minor gentry

  the lower ranks of the gentry, often without titles or large estates

  Example

  The minor gentry were not as wealthy as the major gentry, but still enjoyed a comfortable lifestyle.

• gentry class

  the social class consisting of the gentry

  Example

  The gentry class was known for their education, manners, and refinement.

Origins of gentry

from Old French 'genterie', meaning 'nobility of birth'

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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.