elite etymology

Etymology

The word "elite" comes from the French word "élite", which in turn comes from the Latin word "eligere", meaning "to choose".

Meaning

The term "elite" refers to a select group of people who are considered to be superior to others due to their knowledge, skill, power, or social status.

Origin

The concept of an elite has existed throughout human history. In ancient Greece, for example, the elite were known as the "aristocracy". During the Roman Empire, the elite were known as the "patricians". In medieval Europe, the elite were known as the "nobility".

In the modern era, the term "elite" is often used to refer to the upper class, the ruling class, or those who hold positions of great power and influence. The elite may include politicians, business leaders, military officers, academics, and cultural figures.

Usage

The term "elite" can be used in both a positive and negative sense. In a positive sense, it can refer to those who are highly accomplished and make significant contributions to society. In a negative sense, it can refer to those who are privileged and use their power to benefit themselves at the expense of others.

Examples

• "The world's elite gathered at the annual Davos summit."
• "The ruling elite has ignored the needs of the poor."
• "She is part of the academic elite."
• "The elite often send their children to private schools."

elite relate terms

• election

  Etymology The word election comes from the Latin word electio which derives from th

• elitism

  Etymology Derived from the Latin elite chosen select Ultimately from the Latin ver

• elite

  Etymology The word elite comes from the French word élite which in turn comes from

• elect

  Etymology The word elect comes from the Latin verb eligere meaning to choose sele

• janizary

  Etymology The term janizary derives from the Turkish word yeniçeri which means new

• meritocracy

  Etymology The term meritocracy is derived from two Latin roots Merere meaning to d

• flower

  Etymology The word flower derives from the Old English word flōwer which is cognate

• commando

  Etymology The word commando derives from the Afrikaans word kommando which refers to

• pick

  Etymology Pick comes from the Middle English word pikken which is derived from the

• society

  Etymology The word society comes from the Latin word societas which means associat

• nobility

  Etymology Latin nobilitas Proto Indo European ne bʰel to know understand

• aristocracy

  Etymology The word aristocracy comes from the Greek words aristos best most excelle