French word

aristocratie

Pronunciation

IPA/aʁistokʁasi/

Meaning

  • feminine nounaristocracy

Example

L'aristocratie a beaucoup influencé l'histoire.

The aristocracy has had a major influence on history.

Illustration for aristocratie (aristocracy)

More examples

On critique souvent l'aristocratie pour ses privilèges.

People often criticize the aristocracy for its privileges.

Core concept

A small, elevated group that forms a social summit and can shape public life from positions of inherited or recognized privilege.

Similar words

noblesse: A hereditary class holding titles and special privileges.
élite: An influential group with power to shape decisions in society or an organization.
haute société: Wealthy or high-status people prominent in social circles.

Definition in French

Ensemble des membres d'une noblesse ou d'une élite sociale exerçant un pouvoir ou des privilèges reconnus, souvent hérités.

Word origin

Greek aristokratia, meaning rule by the best, entered French as aristocratie through the historical Latin form aristocratia.

Usage tips

  • In French, aristocratie can also refer to a modern social or cultural elite, not only to hereditary nobility.

Other meanings

  • nobilitynoun
  • aristocratic rulenoun

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word