Caste
Webster's Dictionary [1]
(1): (n.) One of the hereditary classes into which the Hindoos are divided according to the laws of Brahmanism.
(2): (n.) A separate and fixed order or class of persons in society who chiefly hold intercourse among themselves.
The Nuttall Encyclopedia [2]
Rank in society of an exclusive nature due to birth or origin, such as prevails among the Hindus especially. Among them there are originally two great classes, the twice-born and the once-born, i. e . those who have passed through a second birth, and those who have not; of the former there are three grades, Brahmans, or the priestly caste, from the mouth of Brahma; Kshatriyas, or the soldier caste, from the hands of Brahma; and Vaisyas, or the agricultural caste, from the feet of Brahma; while the latter are of one rank and are menial to the other, called Sudras, earth-born all; notwithstanding which distinction often members of the highest class sink socially to the lowest level, and members of the lowest rise socially to the highest.
