Meaning & Definition of word "Aristocracy"
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.