Aristocracy is a form of government that places strength in the hands of a small, privileged ruling class, the aristocrats. The term derives from the Greek aristokratíā, meaning 'rule of the best'.

What is the simple meaning of aristocracy?

1 : government by the best individuals or by a small privileged class. 2a : a government in which power is vested (see vest entry 2 sense 1a) in a minority consisting of those believed to be best qualified. b : a state with such a government.

What is an example of an aristocracy?

An example of an aristocracy is Britain's Royal family. Another example of an aristocracy is the Kennedy family in the United States. A hereditary ruling class; nobility. ... A group or class considered superior to others.