lowbred

UK: ˈləʊbred | US: ˈloʊbred

Definition

  1. adj. lacking refinement or good manners; vulgar or coarse in behavior or upbringing.

Structure
low <of inferior quality>bred <raised>
Etymology

lowbred = low<of inferior quality> + bred<raised>

  • low: From Old English hlāh, meaning "not high" or "of inferior status." In this context, it implies lack of refinement.
  • bred: Past participle of breed, from Old English brēdan, meaning "to raise" or "bring up." Combined, it suggests being raised with poor manners.

Etymology Origin:
The term lowbred emerged in the 18th century, combining low (denoting baseness) and bred (upbringing). It reflects class-conscious attitudes, implying that one’s behavior is shaped by inferior upbringing. The word contrasts with well-bred, reinforcing social hierarchies through language.

Examples

  1. His lowbred remarks offended everyone at the dinner party.

  2. The aristocrats sneered at her lowbred accent.

  3. Despite his wealth, his lowbred habits revealed his humble origins.

  4. The play mocked lowbred characters for comic effect.

  5. She disguised her lowbred past by adopting polished manners.