white-collar
UK: ˌwaɪt ˈkɒlə | US: ˌwaɪt ˈkɑːlər
adj. relating to professional or office work (contrasted with manual labor)
n. a person employed in professional, administrative, or managerial work
The term "white-collar" emerged in the early 20th century (first recorded in 1910) as a metaphorical contrast to "blue-collar" (manual laborers who often wore durable, darker clothing). The "white" refers to the traditional dress shirts worn by office workers, symbolizing cleanliness and non-physical work, while "collar" highlights the visible part of professional attire. This division reflects societal shifts during industrialization, where clerical roles became distinct from factory labor.
White-collar jobs often require advanced education and computer skills.
The company offers benefits tailored to white-collar employees.
Stress levels can be high in white-collar professions due to long hours.
She transitioned from blue-collar factory work to a white-collar office role.
White-collar crime, such as fraud, has increased in the digital age.