Final answer:
The term 'upper' is best matched with 'rich' (b), which refers to the upper class that includes individuals or households with incomes significantly higher than the national median.
Step-by-step explanation:
Which of the following matches the word "upper" in terms of social class? The answer is b) rich. In sociological terms, social classes in the United States are often divided into upper, middle, and lower classes. The upper class is associated with high levels of wealth, which can lead to increased opportunities for social mobility and can perpetuate class structure through generations.
To be considered upper class in terms of income, an individual or household would typically earn more than twice the national median income. The upper class commonly includes professionals like doctors and lawyers, as well as those in executive or managerial roles.