meritocracy
UK[ˌmer.ɪˈtɒk.rə.si]US[ˌmer.ɪˈtɑː.krə.si]
n
A social system in which people's success or status is based on their talent, intelligence, and effort, rather than wealth or social class.
n
A group of people who hold power because of their ability, or the government or society they form.
Morpheme Breakdown
merit
ocracy
merit
deserve
ocracy
rule by
Etymology
The word "meritocracy" is a modern hybrid, coined in the mid-20th century by blending the Latin-derived "merit" with the Greek-derived suffix "-ocracy." The Latin root meritum carries the core idea of something earned or deserved based on one's actions or qualities. The Greek element -kratia denotes a form of rule or power structure. Therefore, the literal construction yields "rule by the deserving." This term was initially used descriptively and sometimes satirically to critique a theoretical system where social position is determined by intellectual merit. Over time, it has evolved into a common, often aspirational, term for a system where advancement is based on ability and achievement rather than privilege.
Analysis
Structure: merit (deserve) + ocracy (rule by)
- merit: From Latin meritum (a service, kindness, benefit, worth), from meritus (deserved, earned). Functions as the core noun stem.
- ocracy: From French -cratie, ultimately from Greek -kratia (power, rule, government), from kratos (strength, power). Functions as a combining form meaning "rule by" or "government by".
Examples
The company prides itself on being a meritocracy where promotions are based solely on performance.
Critics argue that true meritocracy is an ideal, as access to opportunities is often unequal.
The essay explored the potential downsides of a competitive meritocratic society.