WASP culture

WASP culture refers to the social norms, values, and behavioral codes associated with White Anglo-Saxon Protestants—the historically dominant demographic in American institutions.

The term evokes old money, Ivy League education, country clubs, understated dress, emotional reserve, and an emphasis on propriety over expressiveness.

Her family's WASP culture meant feelings were discussed obliquely, if at all.

Often used critically to describe insularity or unearned privilege.

Related

Connecticut · Protestant · Episcopal · polo · khaki · pearls · old money · privilege · Martha's Vineyard · tennis · golf · Brooks Brothers · boat shoes · establishment · Nantucket · Palm Beach · patrician · country estate

Opposites
ethnic/religious identity

WASP cultureJewish culture

Traditions of the Hebrews

Latino culture · Catholic culture · immigrant culture · Italian-American culture · African American culture

social class expression

WASP culturenew money

Self-earned, not inherited wealth

hip-hop culture · conspicuous consumption · gaudy · showy

communication and emotional style

WASP cultureMediterranean culture

Traditions of southern coastal Europe

Family

wasp, wasps, waspish, waspishly, waspishness, culture, cultures, cultural, culturally

Familiarity
Top 500,000
Profile
Mostly American · Timeless · Abstract · Rated PG