noun

meritocracy

meritocracy

The company claims to be a meritocracy.

The company claims to be a meritocracy.

Some argue that a true meritocracy is impossible.

Some argue that a true meritocracy is impossible.

((a/the)) meritocracy a system in which people get success or power because of their abilities The company claims to be a meritocracy.

Synonyms: performance-based system, technocracy

From Latin `meritum` (merit) + Greek `-kratia` (power, rule). Literally 'rule by the deserving'.

Break it down: MERIT + -OCRACY. The suffix '-cracy' means 'rule by,' as in democracy (rule by the people). So, meritocracy is 'rule by merit'.

This page is designed for learning support. Please use it as a learning reference, not as a formal reference.