the ruling class

Definitions

The social group within a society that possesses the most power, influence, and control over political and economic institutions.

The elite minority that holds authority and makes the primary decisions affecting the governance and direction of a nation or organization.

Examples

The ruling class maintained their power by controlling the flow of information to the public.

Economic reforms were often blocked by the ruling class to protect their own financial interests.

Synonyms

The elite The establishment The powers that be The aristocracy The governing body The upper crust The ruling elite

Antonyms

The common people The proletariat The masses The working class The rank and file The peasantry The underprivileged