lumpenproletariat

Definition

The lowest stratum of the proletariat, whose mental and physical health, mores and morale have deteriorated, through exploitation by the bourgeoisie, to a degree where they cannot build class consciousness and hence cannot be mobilized for the revolution.

Etymology

Unadapted borrowing from German Lumpenproletariat.

Example Sentences

• "I hadn't quite figured her out yet: rude snob or lumpenproletariat?"