élite

EH-lee-teh/ˈelite/

“élite” means “elite” in Spanish (a select group of people seen as superior).

elite

Also: select group, top-tier

Este club es solo para la élite de la ciudad.

This club is only for the city's elite.

Ella es una deportista de élite y compite a nivel mundial.

She is a top-tier athlete and competes at a global level.

La élite intelectual se reunió en la conferencia.

The intellectual elite gathered at the conference.

Words that translate to "élite" in Spanish:

Question 1 of 3

Which of these is the correct way to refer to 'the political elite'?

👥 Word Family▼

elitista(elitist) — Adjective

elitismo(elitism) — Noun

🎵 Rhymes▼

desquitemite

📚 Etymology▼

From the French word 'élite', which comes from 'élire' meaning 'to choose' or 'select'. It shares the same roots as the English word 'elect'.

First recorded: 19th century

Cognates (Related words)

French: éliteEnglish: eliteItalian: élite

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Is 'élite' masculine or feminine?

It is feminine (la élite). This stays the same regardless of who makes up the group.

Why do some people say 'EH-lee-teh' and others say 'eh-LEE-teh'?

Both are correct. 'Élite' (with an accent) puts the stress on the first 'E', while 'elite' (without) puts the stress on the 'LI'.

Can I use 'élite' to describe a product?

It's usually used for groups of people. For products, it's better to use words like 'de lujo' (luxury) or 'de alta gama' (high-end).