Which word refers to the coarsest class of people, often portrayed negatively?

The term that refers to the coarsest class of people, often depicted in a negative light, is "rabble." This word is commonly used to describe a disorderly crowd or a mob, implying a lack of refinement, education, or sophistication. It carries connotations of chaos and often suggests that this group is unruly or ignorant, which is why it is portrayed negatively in literature and discourse.

In contrast, "rancor" refers to bitterness or resentment, typically associated with deep-seated ill will but not specifically related to a class of people. "Prowess" denotes skill, especially in a particular activity, which is a positive attribute and does not fit the context of describing a coarse or negative class of people. Lastly, "rarefy" means to make something less dense or to purify, which again does not relate to the concept of a coarse class. Thus, "rabble" accurately encapsulates the idea of a negatively viewed group of people.