Meaning & Definition of word "Aristocracy"
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Aristocracy
/ˌær.ɪˈstɒk.rə.si/
noun:
- 1. A form of government in which power is held by the nobility or a privileged minority.
- Example: The country was governed by an aristocracy that made decisions without considering the common people's opinions.
- 2. The highest class in certain societies, especially those holding hereditary titles or offices.
- Example: The aristocracy of Europe often lived in grand estates and had significant influence over political matters.
- 3. A social class that is considered superior to others based on wealth, education, or family background.
- Example: In many cultures, the aristocracy has historically enjoyed privileges that are not accessible to the lower classes.
Etymology
From the Greek 'aristos' meaning 'best' and 'kratos' meaning 'power'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
old money:
Wealth that has been inherited rather than earned, often associated with the aristocracy.
blue blood:
A term used to refer to a person of aristocratic descent.
landed gentry:
A class of people who own land, traditionally associated with the aristocracy.
Related Words
nobility:
The collective social class typically ranked below aristocracy, often entitled to own land.
royalty:
Members of a royal family who typically have higher status than the aristocracy.
Slang Meanings of aristocracy
Meaning: A term used to describe members of the aristocracy in a derogatory sense.
Example Sentence: They think they're so special, just a bunch of 'toffs'.
Meaning: Refers to individuals acting entitled or snobbish.
Example Sentence: He was acting quite posh, like one of those 'aristos' who look down on everyone.