1. the working class, especially industrial workers who lack ownership of the means of production
Usage: often used in Marxist theory

Examples

• Marx wrote extensively about the struggle between the proletariat and the bourgeoisie.
• The industrial revolution created a large urban proletariat.
• Many members of the proletariat worked in factories for low wages.
• The political party claimed to represent the interests of the proletariat.
• During the 19th century, the proletariat began organizing into labor unions.
• The revolution was led by the proletariat against the ruling class.