Third World

== English == === Alternative forms === third world, 3rd World, 3rd world === Pronunciation === === Proper noun === the Third World (historical, politics) Those countries not aligned with the west or the east during the Cold War. (sometimes derogatory) developing countries, especially that of Africa, Asia and Latin America Synonym: Global South Antonym: First World (attributive, derogatory, informal) Any developing country, or a country lacking the perceived internationally respected ideal standards of a society (e.g. sufficient rule of law and internationally respected level of prosperity). People of marginalized or exploited races, collectively. ==== Usage notes ==== This term is sometimes considered offensive and acceptable only in its historical sense when referring to nations that were not geographically aligned with the West or the East during the Cold War. Even in that sense, the term non-aligned country is generally preferred. See also developed country § Usage notes. ==== Derived terms ==== ==== Translations ==== ==== See also ==== === Further reading === Third World on Wikipedia.Wikipedia