elite
Translation
elite, select group, the best
Examples
Only the political elite attended the meeting.
Only the political elite attended the meeting.
This is an elite unit of soldiers.
This is an elite unit of soldiers.
Grammar Patterns
the ((elite)) of (sth.) the best of a group The elite of the academic world.
an ((elite)) (noun) a top-tier (noun) She is in an elite group of scientists.
Similar Words
Synonyms: aristocracy, best, top; Antonyms: masses, common people
Etymology
From French 'élite' (chosen), which comes from the Latin 'eligere' (to choose).
Memory Tips
Think of 'E-LITE' as 'Elected Light'—the chosen few. It can be a noun (the elite) or an adjective (an elite group).