elite

e-lite · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A group of people considered to be the best in a particular society or category, especially because of their power, talent, or wealth.

  2. 2.

    Belonging to or characteristic of the elite; select, superior.

  3. 3.

    A size of letter in typewriting, with twelve characters to the inch.

Forms

plural: elites

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    elite forces — specially trained military units
  • •
    power elite — the group of people who hold the most power in society
  • •
    social elite — the upper class of society

Related words

Antonyms: common people, masses, ordinary
See also: aristocracy, elitism, elitist, privileged
Synonyms: aristocracy, best, cream, upper class

Etymology

From French elite ("selection, choice"), from Old French eslite, past participle of eslire ("to choose, elect"), from Latin eligere ("to pick out, select"), from e- ("out") + legere ("to choose").