VocabDictionary

aristocracy

/ˌær.ɪˈstɒk.rə.si/advanced Level

English Meaning & Definitions

1.noun

A form of government in which power is held by the nobility or a privileged ruling class.

Example Sentences:
  • The French Revolution sought to dismantle the power of the landed aristocracy.
  • In many ancient societies, the aristocracy controlled the majority of the nation's wealth.
2.noun

The highest class in certain societies, especially those holding hereditary titles or offices.

Example Sentences:
  • She was born into the British aristocracy and spent her youth in grand country estates.
  • The aristocracy maintained a lifestyle far removed from the struggles of the working class.
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English Synonyms & Near Equivalents

English Antonyms & Opposites

Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown

Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “aristocracy”.

Thesaurus Entry
Cultural Origin & Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'aristokratia', a combination of 'aristos' (meaning 'best') and 'kratos' (meaning 'power' or 'rule'). Originally coined in ancient Greece to describe a form of government where power is held by the 'best' citizens, it later evolved to refer to a hereditary ruling class.

Memory Aid & Mnemonic

Think of 'Aristo' as 'Artist'—the elite class who were historically the 'best' at arts and governance.

Frequently Asked Questions About “aristocracy

1. What is the meaning of “aristocracy” in English?

In English, aristocracy (noun) is defined as: “A form of government in which power is held by the nobility or a privileged ruling class.”.

2. How do you use “aristocracy” in a sentence?

The French Revolution sought to dismantle the power of the landed aristocracy.

3. What are English synonyms of “aristocracy”?

Common synonyms include:nobility,gentry,peerage,elite,patriciate

4. What is the etymology and word origin of “aristocracy”?

Derived from the Greek 'aristokratia', a combination of 'aristos' (meaning 'best') and 'kratos' (meaning 'power' or 'rule'). Originally coined in ancient Greece to describe a form of government where power is held by the 'best' citizens, it later evolved to refer to a hereditary ruling class.