Crossword Genius

Without social distinction, like an unemployed teacher (9)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

classless

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'like an unemployed teacher' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

'without social distinction' is the wordplay.
I cannot really see how this works, but
'without' could be 'less' (I've seen this in another clue) and 'less' is found in the answer.
The remaining letters 'class' is a valid word which might be clued in a way I don't see.
This may be the basis of the clue (or it may be nonsense).

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for classless that I've seen before include "lacking social order" , "like an unemployed teacher" , "having no social distinctions" , "Society of socialist ideal" , "Lacking distinction" .)

I've seen this clue in The Daily Express.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.