Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

oligarchy

noun

/ˈɒlɪɡɑːrki/

Definition

A form of government in which a small group of people holds most or all political power.

Examples

The country was ruled by an oligarchy that made decisions without public input.
In some oligarchies, the leaders maintain power by controlling the media.
The transition from democracy to oligarchy can happen gradually, as power becomes concentrated in the hands of a few.

Meaning

The term ‘oligarchy’ refers to a political system where a limited number of individuals, families, or factions have a significant influence or control over governance, often prioritizing their interests over the larger population.