third estate

noun

1. the third of the three estates or political orders: the commons in France or England. Compare estate ( def 5 ).

third estate

noun

1. the third order or class in a country or society divided into estates, esp for representation in a parliament; the commons, townsmen, or middle class

Word History and Origins

Origin of third estate¹

First recorded in 1595–1605

Example Sentences

Sieyès preferred to stand for the Third Estate at Paris, where he was elected last of all the candidates.

From Project Gutenberg

On the third day the Third Estate finds itself alone in the great hall.

From Project Gutenberg

Thus do they interpret in their own way and in their own terms the double representation accorded to the Third-Estate.

From Project Gutenberg

As the Third-Estate, it must be noted, is the sole class making and saving money, nearly all these creditors belong it.

From Project Gutenberg

"The simplicity of English customs," and the customs of the Third-Estate seem to them better adapted to ordinary life.

From Project Gutenberg