Caste
/kæst/noun
A rigid social class system, particularly prominent in India.
Did you know?The term 'Caste' originates from the Spanish word 'casta', meaning lineage, reflecting social hierarchies believed to be divinely ordained.
Etymological Timeline
Spanish
Spanish
casta
“Lineage, race, or breed, emphasizing purity and social class.”
16th Century
Portuguese
casta
“Used in reference to social classes in the Indian subcontinent.”
17th Century
Latin
castus
“Pure, chaste, highlighting notions of purity.”
Early 18th Century
English
caste
“Adopted to describe the rigid social divisions in India, solidifying its modern usage.”