elite

[eɪˈliːt]

elite Definition

• 1. a select group that is superior in terms of ability or qualities to the rest of a group or society
• 2. a group or class of people seen as having the greatest power and influence within a society, especially because of their wealth or privilege

Using elite: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "elite" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The elite of the business world gathered at the conference.

• Example

  She was part of the intellectual elite at the university.

• Example

  The country's political elite controls most of the wealth and power.

• Example

  The school only accepts students from the academic elite.

elite Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for elite

• aristocracy
• nobility
• privileged
• upper class
• cream of the crop

Antonyms for elite

• commoners
• masses

Idioms Using elite

• elite company

  a group of people who are the best or most successful in their field

  Example

  She was in elite company when she won the award.

• elite group

  a small group of people who are the best or most powerful in a larger group

  Example

  The elite group of scientists made a groundbreaking discovery.

• elite level

  the highest level of achievement or performance in a particular field

  Example

  She reached the elite level of her sport after years of training.

Phrases with elite

• the elite few

  a small group of people who are the best or most powerful in a larger group

  Example

  The elite few control most of the country's resources.

• elite athlete

  a person who is among the best in their sport

  Example

  He is an elite athlete who has won several gold medals.

• elite education

  an education that is considered to be of the highest quality and is usually reserved for the wealthy or privileged

  Example

  She received an elite education at a private school.

Origins of elite

from French 'élite', from Old French 'eslit', meaning 'chosen'

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Summary: elite in Brief

The term 'elite' [eɪˈliːt] refers to a select group that is superior in terms of ability or qualities to the rest of a group or society. It can refer to a group or class of people seen as having the greatest power and influence within a society, especially because of their wealth or privilege. Examples include 'The elite of the business world gathered at the conference.' and 'The school only accepts students from the academic elite.' Phrases like 'the elite few' and idioms like 'elite company' denote a small group of the best or most powerful in a larger group.