noun
- plural of patriciate; the aristocratic or noble classes in ancient Rome or other societies; ruling classes of wealthy families
Usage: historical
Examples
- The patriciates of various Italian city-states controlled trade and politics.
- Medieval patriciates often intermarried to maintain their power.
- The Roman patriciates held exclusive rights to certain religious offices.
- Urban patriciates emerged in many European cities during the Middle Ages.
- These patriciates accumulated wealth through commerce and banking.
- The influence of the patriciates declined with the rise of democratic movements.