third world

noun

often capitalized T&W
1
: the aggregate of the underdeveloped nations of the world
2
: a group of nations especially in Africa and Asia not aligned with either the Communist or the non-Communist blocs
3
: an aggregate of minority groups within a larger predominant culture
third worlder noun often capitalized T&W

Word History

First Known Use

1958, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of third world was in 1958

Dictionary Entries Near third world

Cite this Entry

“Third world.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/third%20world. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

third world

noun
often capitalized T&W
: the poor and underdeveloped nations of the world
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!