elitism

American  

[ih-lee-tiz-uhm, ey-lee-] / ɪˈli tɪz əm, eɪˈli- /

noun

1. practice of or belief in rule by an elite.

2. consciousness of or pride in belonging to a select or favored group.

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elitism British  

/ ɪˈliːtɪzəm, eɪ- /

noun

1. 1. the belief that society should be governed by a select group of gifted and highly educated individuals

   2. such government

2. pride in or awareness of being one of an elite group

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Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• antielitism
  noun
• elitist
  noun
• elitist
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of elitism

First recorded in 1950–55; elite + -ism

Explanation

The idea that a small, select group of people should get their way is called elitism. Rich politicians and academics alike are sometimes accused of elitism. People who are fans of democracy, believing that all citizens should be able to vote for their governmental representatives, are not likely to be fond of elitism. When governments are made up solely of members of the same family, social class, or specific demographic they can be accused of elitism. Ironically, the root of elitism is the Latin word ēligere, which means "to choose."

Example Sentences

Elitism is a frequent target of criticism, especially in politics.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 8, 2023

“It’s like, how can I bring as many people into the fold? Elitism is something that is very exclusive.”

From The Guardian • Mar. 3, 2020

Elitism doesn’t have the same negative connotation in other arenas.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 18, 2019

The protester, Trenton Oldfield, claimed responsibility for the stunt on the blog Elitism Leads To Tyranny, calling it an act of civil disobedience.

From New York Times • Apr. 7, 2012

The protester, Trenton Oldfield, claimed responsibility for the stunt on a blog entitled Elitism Leads To Tyranny, calling it an act of civil disobedience.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 7, 2012