1. a class of people holding exceptional rank and privileges, especially the hereditary nobility
2. a form of government in which power is held by the nobility
3. a group or class considered to be superior in a particular sphere

Examples

• The French aristocracy lost much of their power during the revolution.
• She was born into the British aristocracy and inherited a large estate.
• The country was ruled by an aristocracy of wealthy landowners.
• He considered himself part of the intellectual aristocracy.
• The aristocracy lived in grand mansions while the poor struggled.
• Many members of the aristocracy opposed democratic reforms.
• The tennis club attracted the local aristocracy and wealthy businessmen.