elitism

noun

1
: leadership or rule by an elite
2
: the selectivity of the elite
especially : snobbery
elitism in choosing new members
3
: consciousness of being or belonging to an elite

Examples of elitism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Set against a backdrop of music, marching bands, and protest, the film uses satire and song to confront colorism, elitism, and classism within the Black community. Okla Jones, Essence, 16 Oct. 2025 The authors were subjected to threats, accused of elitism and targeted in social media campaigns backed by the meat industry. Bloomberg News, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 Oct. 2025 However, elitism rears its head. Meagan Jordan, Rolling Stone, 17 Aug. 2025 Higher education stands at a defining crossroads, facing critiques over exorbitant costs, questionable outcomes, and entrenched elitism. Scott Pulsipher, Forbes.com, 14 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for elitism

Word History

First Known Use

1934, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of elitism was in 1934

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Cite this Entry

“Elitism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/elitism. Accessed 22 Oct. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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