elitist

American  

[ih-lee-tist, ey-lee‑] / ɪˈli tɪst, eɪˈli‑ /

adjective

1. (of a person or class of persons) considered superior by others or by themselves, as in intellect, talent, power, wealth, or position in society.

   elitist country clubbers who have theirs and don't care about anybody else.

2. catering to or associated with an elitist class, its ideologies, or its institutions.

   Even at such a small, private college, Latin and Greek are under attack as too elitist.

---

noun

1. a person having, thought to have, or professing superior intellect or talent, power, wealth, or membership in the upper echelons of society.

   He lost a congressional race in Texas by being smeared as an Eastern elitist.

2. a person who believes in the superiority of an elitist class.

Other Word Forms

• antielitist noun
• nonelitist noun

Etymology

Origin of elitist

elite + -ist

Example Sentences

Biden and his aides spend considerable time thinking about these problems, and he has tried to take a less elitist approach.

From New York Times

Jamil opened up about her views on exercise, which she said can be “exclusive” and “elitist.”

From Los Angeles Times

The hospital's chief executive, Mark Regan, said there was no longer an "elitist aspect" to those who came to them, instead it was "everyone... because they simply can't wait" and are "seeking other options".

From BBC

Its acronym also satirizes the elitist nature of the art world, while also pointing to the gallery’s emphasis on research and thoughtful engagement with the community.

From New York Times

A whole chapter of the 363-page report highlights serious concerns, with the toxic cultures of bullying, racism and ableism, and elitist attitudes in the units.

From BBC