"Untouchables" Pronounce,Meaning And Examples

"Untouchables" Meaning

The term "untouchables" refers to a group of people in the traditional Indian caste system who were considered impure and undesirable, and were relegated to a low status in society. They were considered to be outside the traditional caste system and were not allowed to interact with people of higher castes.

The term is also used to describe a group of people who are considered to be outside of or at the lower end of mainstream society, often due to their ethnicity, occupation, economic status, or other factors.

In a broader sense, the term is also used to describe a group of people who are considered to be vulnerable or marginalized, and are often excluded from social, economic, or political power.

The term comes from the word "Untouchables" referred to in an 1931 book by American lawyer and writer, Shantipriya Geeta, but it gained popularity after the 1935 novel "The Untouchables" written by American author, Scott Young.

In a popular 1990s movie, the term "untouchables" referred to a group of enforcement agents in the US treasury department.

"Untouchables" Examples

5 Usage Examples of "Untouchables"

1. Social Hierarchy

In Indian society, the term "untouchables" refers to the bottom tier of the caste system, known as the Dalits. They were historically isolated and segregated due to religious and social norms.

2. Unapproachable Personality

Her sharp tongue made her a sort of untouchable among the social circle, as nobody wanted to engage in a confrontation with her.

3. Traditionally Disapproved Behavior

According to social norms, smoking cigarettes was an untouchable habit until health risks became widely acknowledged.

4. Forbidden Territory

The entire first floor was out of bounds, an untouchable area reserved for company events that required a high level of security clearance.

5. Sacred or Sacredly Regarded

In this case, "untouchables" were the Ganges River waterways which were a UNESCO World Heritage Site, worshiped in Hinduism, and off-limits for development and construction to preserve their natural beauty.