power structure

noun

1. the system of authority or influence in government, politics, education, etc..

   The state elections threatened to upset the existing power structure.

2. the people who participate in such a system.

   She hoped to become a part of the power structure.

power structure

noun

1. the structure or distribution of power and authority in a community

2. the people and groups who are part of such a structure

Word History and Origins

Origin of power structure¹

First recorded in 1945–50

Related Words

• hierarchy 
• ruling class www.thesaurus.com