intelligentsia
UK: ɪnˌtɛlɪˈdʒɛntsɪə | US: ɪnˌtɛlɪˈdʒɛntsiə
n. The class of intellectuals or highly educated people, especially those interested in art, literature, and politics.
The word "intelligentsia" originates from the Latin intelligens (present participle of intelligere, meaning "to understand"). It entered English via Russian интеллигенция (intelligentsiya), where it referred to a class of intellectuals critical of the Tsarist regime in 19th-century Russia. The suffix -sia (or -tsia) functions as a collective noun marker, akin to "-hood" or "-ship" in English. The term reflects a blend of intellectual capacity and social identity, evolving to denote a culturally influential elite.
The intelligentsia played a key role in shaping the country's political reforms.
Many artists and writers belonged to the intelligentsia of the early 20th century.
The government's policies were often criticized by the local intelligentsia.
She aspired to join the intelligentsia through her academic achievements.
The café became a meeting place for the city's intelligentsia.