elite
Definitions
A small group of the most powerful, talented, or privileged people.
精英，精英阶层。
Belonging to or characteristic of such a group; of the highest rank.
精英的，顶尖的。
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedFrom French élite, the past participle of élire 'to elect/choose,' itself from Latin eligere (e- 'out' + leg 'pick'). So an elite is literally 'the chosen ones' — those picked out from the rest. Same e-leg core as elect and eligible, but worn down through French into -lite.
Root lect still carries 128 more wordsWhy It Means This
Elite is the French-dressed cousin of elect. French élire ('to choose') gave élite, 'those who have been chosen.' English borrowed it whole, so the spelling hides the root — but elite, elect, eligible, and elegant all share the same e- + leg ('pick out') core. The elite are, etymologically, simply 'the picked.'
Common Collocations
- 1.elite group精英群体
- 2.political elite政治精英
- 3.elite athlete顶尖运动员
- 4.ruling elite统治精英
Example Sentences
- 1.
Only an elite few reach the Olympic final.
- 2.
The school trains the country's political elite.