Chattering classes

Meaning

The idiom "chattering classes" refers to a group of people who like to talk or gossip about various topics, often in social settings. This term is sometimes used to describe people who are overly concerned with their own opinions and seem to have little real interest in hearing what others have to say. The word "chatter" here means to engage in idle or superficial conversation, while "classes" refers to a group of people who share similar interests or characteristics.

Usage

Here are some examples of how the idiom "chattering classes" can be used in sentences:

• At the dinner party, the chattering classes were all talking about the latest celebrity gossip.
• The politician often finds himself surrounded by the chattering classes who eagerly agree with everything he says.
• When I asked my friend to come over, she said no because she was already out with the chattering classes.
• The academic community can sometimes be seen as a group of intellectual chattering classes, always debating and discussing the latest theories.
• Despite their differences in age and background, the three coworkers quickly became friends and started chatting like the old chattering classes.

Roots and History

The term "chattering classes" is believed to have originated in England in the late 19th century. At that time, people who belonged to certain social groups or had certain interests were often referred to as "classes". For example, there were "working classes", "middle classes", and "upper classes". The word "chatter" comes from Old English "cæddan" or "cædwan", which means to speak excitedly or incessantly. Over time, the term "chattering classes" has become a more general term that can be applied to any group of people who talk excessively about unimportant things. However, it is still often associated with a particular social class or demographic, particularly older, middle-class women who are known for their gossip and love of discussing the latest events in their community.

Synonyms in English

• Gossips
• Chatterboxes
• Socialites
• Buzzkillers
• Party poopers

Synonyms in other languages

• Enchatelés - French (people who are entranced or under a spell)
• 泥鱼 - Chinese (people who are mundane and uninteresting)
• 陶醉的人 - Japanese (people who are enchanted by their own fantasies)
• 無關者 - Korean (people who do not contribute to the conversation)
• 聽說者 - Norwegian (people who love to listen and gossip)

Similar Idioms

• cut down

• come to think of/about it

• come of age