elite
A select group that is superior in terms of ability, wealth, or social status to the rest of a group or society.
Can be used neutrally to describe high skill (e.g., elite athletes) or critically to describe a small group holding disproportionate political and economic power.
Word relationships
- aristocracy: Aristocracy refers specifically to inherited noble titles, whereas elite can refer to anyone at the top of their field due to wealth, skill, or power.
- oligarchs: Oligarchs are specifically wealthy rulers of a corrupt state, while elite is a broader term for the top tier of any group (including sports or science).
- masses: The masses refers to the ordinary, common people who make up the bulk of a population.
- rank and file: The rank and file refers to the ordinary members of an organization, excluding the leaders.
Commonly confused with
- elect: The elect refers specifically to those chosen by God for salvation (in theology) or chosen for a specific office, while elite is a general term for the top tier of society or skill.
Word family
- elitism (noun): The belief that a society or system should be led by an elite.
- elitist (adjective): Demonstrating a superior attitude toward those who are not part of an elite.
Collocations
- ruling elite
- power elite
- elite status
- elite athletes
Example sentences
- "The country's political elite gathered at the private summit to draft the new economic policy." Political analysis of power
- "Only elite runners can complete a marathon in under two hours and ten minutes." Athletic achievement
Memory hook
Think of the word 'elect'. The 'elite' are those who behave as if they have been permanently 'elected' to the top spots of society. Elite = the elected or selected top tier.
When not to use
Do not use to describe a large, average, or unspecialized group of people.
Fun facts
- The sociological concept of the 'Power Elite' was popularized by C. Wright Mills in 1956, describing the tight alliance between military, corporate, and political leaders in America.
Explore more words
establishment, plutocracy, supremacy, meritocracy, shortlist, affluent
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