elite
0 antonyms and opposites of elite, grouped by meaning.
Noun — The smallest, most powerful or most accomplished group within a larger population.
How to use elite
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From French élite, "the chosen ones," from élire, "to elect" — ultimately the same Latin root as English "elect."
Full origin of elite →Frequently asked questions
What does “elite” mean?
The word “elite” means the smallest, most powerful or most accomplished group within a larger population. In plain terms, the top tier — the smallest, most select group at the very best or most powerful end of something.
How do you pronounce “elite”?
“Elite” is pronounced ih-LEET (/ɪˈlit/ in IPA).
How do you use “elite” in a sentence?
Here is “elite” used in a sentence: “Only a small elite of engineers understood how the reactor actually worked.”
What part of speech is “elite”?
Depending on how it is used, “elite” can be a noun and an adjective.
Where does the word “elite” come from?
The word “elite” comes from Latin. From French élite, "the chosen ones," from élire, "to elect" — ultimately the same Latin root as English "elect.".
Is “elite” a common word?
“Elite” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “elite” have?
“Elite” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the smallest, most powerful or most accomplished group within a larger population.
What does it mean to be part of the elite?
Being part of the elite means belonging to the smallest, most powerful or most accomplished group within a larger population. This might be the wealthiest, the highest-ranking, or the most skilled — the top tier in status, influence, or ability. Elite groups are defined by being few in number but exceptional in some way.
Is elite a positive or negative word?
It depends on context. Describing skill, 'elite' is highly positive — an elite athlete is among the very best. Describing power or privilege, it can turn negative, as in an out-of-touch ruling elite. The word signals a small, top-ranked group; whether that reads as admirable or resented depends on the setting.
What is the difference between elite and elitist?
'Elite' describes the small, top group itself — the most powerful or accomplished. 'Elitist' is an attitude: the belief that this group deserves special treatment or that ordinary people matter less. Elite can be neutral or admiring, but elitist is almost always used critically to signal snobbery or exclusion.
What is the opposite of elite?
Opposites include ordinary, average, or common — the general mass of people rather than the select top group. In terms of ability, the opposite is amateur or mediocre; in terms of status, the rank and file or the masses. Where elite means the exceptional few, its antonyms point to the everyday many.