elitism
UK[ɪˈliː.tɪ.zəm]US[ɪˈliː.tɪ.zəm]
n
the belief that a society or system should be led by a small group of people who are superior in intelligence, wealth, or power.
n
behavior or attitudes seen as typical of such a group, especially when considered as being snobbish.
Morpheme Breakdown
elit
ism
elit
select
ism
doctrine
Etymology
the word 'elitism' is a modern construction, entering english in the early 20th century. its core, 'elite', traces back to the latin verb 'eligere', meaning "to pick out, choose", which itself is a compound of 'e-' (out) and 'legere' (to gather, choose). this etymological sense of being "chosen out" from a larger group perfectly captures the concept of a select minority. the suffix '-ism' was appended to transform this concept into a term for the ideology or practice that advocates for or exemplifies the dominance of such a group. thus, the literal "doctrine of the chosen ones" evolved into the modern abstract meaning, encompassing both the belief in rule by a superior minority and the perceived snobbery associated with it.
Analysis
Structure: elit (select) + ism (doctrine)
elit: from french 'élite', meaning "selection, choice", ultimately from latin 'eligere' (to choose, select out). functions as the core root denoting a chosen or superior group.
ism: a suffix of greek origin (via latin '-ismus'), forming nouns of action, state, or doctrine. it denotes a distinctive practice, system, or philosophy.
Examples
the university was accused of elitism for favoring applicants from private schools.
his elitism made him unpopular with colleagues who came from more modest backgrounds.
a backlash against political elitism has fueled the rise of populist movements.