elitist
UK: ɪˈliː.tɪst | US: ɪˈliː.tɪst
n. 1. A person who believes in or advocates the dominance of a select group, often based on wealth, intellect, or social status.
adj. 2. Characteristic of or relating to elitism; favoring or demonstrating elitism.
elitist = elite<select group> + ist<one who practices>
- elite: From French élite (literally "chosen"), derived from Latin eligere ("to choose"). Retains the core meaning of a superior or select group.
- ist: A suffix of Greek origin (via Latin -ista), denoting a person who practices or advocates something.
Etymology Origin:
The word elitist emerged in the early 20th century, combining elite (a term for a privileged minority) with -ist to critique or identify those who uphold exclusivity. The Latin root eligere ("to choose") reflects the idea of selection, while -ist adds agency, creating a term that encapsulates both ideology and identity.
Critics accused the policy of being elitist, benefiting only the wealthy.
She rejected the elitist notion that art should cater solely to intellectuals.
The club’s strict membership rules were seen as elitist by outsiders.
His elitist attitude made him unpopular among his peers.
The debate centered on whether meritocracy inevitably leads to elitist systems.