Caste /(?)/

Caste

n.
  1. One of the hereditary classes into which the Hindu are divided according to the laws of Brahmanism.
  2. A separate and fixed order or class of persons in society who chiefly hold intercourse among themselves.
    The tinkers then formed an hereditary caste.

Phrases & Compounds
To lose caste
to be degraded from the caste to which one has belonged; to lose social position or consideration.