technocrat
UK: ˈtɛknə(ʊ)krat | US: ˈtɛknəˌkræt
n. A member of a technically skilled elite who governs or influences society through expertise in technology or science.
n. An advocate of technocracy (government by technical experts).
technocrat = techno<technology, skill> + crat<ruler, power>
- techno: From Greek tekhnē (art, skill, craft), referring to applied knowledge or technology.
- crat: From Greek -kratia (power, rule), as seen in democracy (rule by the people) or aristocracy (rule by the elite).
Etymology Origin:
Coined in the early 20th century, technocrat blends techno- (technology) and -crat (ruler), reflecting the rise of scientific governance. The term critiques or praises systems where experts, rather than politicians, hold power. Its logic mirrors aristocrat but replaces nobility with technical prowess.
The city’s infrastructure was overhauled by a committee of technocrats.
Critics argue that technocrats lack democratic accountability.
She was labeled a technocrat for her data-driven policy proposals.
The technocrat prioritized efficiency over public opinion.
In the crisis, the government appointed a technocrat as finance minister.