elite
UK[eɪˈliːt]US[ɪˈliːt]
n
the richest, most powerful, best-educated, or most highly skilled group in a society
n
a person who is a member of such a group
Etymology
the word 'elite' entered english in the early 19th century, borrowed directly from the french noun 'élite', meaning "selection, choice." the french term derived from the old french verb 'eslire', meaning "to choose, select," which itself evolved from the latin verb 'eligere', composed of 'e-' (out) and 'legere' (to choose, pick). the core semantic thread from latin to modern english is the concept of being "chosen out" or "selected." this literal sense of being the chosen or best part of a group evolved into its contemporary abstract meaning, referring to a small, superior, and powerful segment within a society or organization.
Analysis
n/a
Examples
the country's political elite gathered for the private conference.
the university is known for educating the intellectual elite.
she joined an elite unit within the military.