second-class
UK: ˌsekənd ˈklɑːs | US: ˌsekənd ˈklæs
adj. of inferior quality or status
adj. relating to a lower tier in a hierarchy (e.g., travel, mail)
n. a category or group below the highest standard
The word "second-class" combines "second," derived from Latin secundus (meaning "following" or "next in order"), and "class," from Latin classis (originally referring to divisions of Roman citizens). By the 19th century, "second-class" emerged to denote a subordinate tier, particularly in transportation (e.g., trains) and social hierarchies. The term reflects a clear ranking system, where "second" implies precedence and "class" defines the structured division.
The hotel offered second-class accommodations at a lower price.
She refused to accept second-class treatment in the workplace.
Second-class mail typically takes longer to deliver.
The theater’s second-class seats had limited visibility.
He felt relegated to a second-class citizen after the policy change.