aristocratic
Meaning: Belonging to or characteristic of the aristocracy, or displaying the refined manners, bearing, and tastes traditionally associated with the upper classes.
Aristocratic can describe either literal membership of a hereditary nobility or, more figuratively, a manner of behaviour that suggests elegance, aloofness, or social superiority. In British English it has particular resonance given the country's class system and peerage traditions. It may be used admiringly (suggesting grace and cultivation) or critically (implying snobbery and entitlement).
Examples
- Her aristocratic bearing and cut-glass accent set her apart from the other candidates at once. 她贵族般的风度和标准的上流口音立刻使她在其他候选人中脱颖而出。Su porte aristocrático y su acento de clase alta la distinguieron de inmediato del resto de candidatos.彼女の貴族的な物腰と上流階級の発音は、他の候補者たちの中で即座に際立っていた。그녀의 귀족적인 품위와 상류층 특유의 억양은 다른 후보들 사이에서 즉시 돋보였다.
- The aristocratic families who had dominated the county for centuries were gradually losing their political influence. 数百年来主宰该郡的贵族家庭正逐渐失去其政治影响力。Las familias aristocráticas que habían dominado el condado durante siglos iban perdiendo gradualmente su influencia política.何世紀にもわたりその州を支配してきた貴族の家系は、徐々に政治的影響力を失いつつあった。수세기 동안 그 지역을 지배해 온 귀족 가문들은 점차 정치적 영향력을 잃어가고 있었다.
- He affected an aristocratic disdain for popular culture that his colleagues found rather tiresome. 他故作对大众文化的贵族式鄙视,同事们觉得这相当令人厌烦。Afectaba un desdén aristocrático hacia la cultura popular que sus colegas encontraban bastante tedioso.彼は大衆文化に対する貴族的な軽蔑を気取っていたが、同僚たちはそれをかなり退屈に感じていた。그는 대중문화에 대한 귀족적 경멸을 과시했지만, 동료들은 그것을 꽤 지루하게 여겼다.
Pronunciation
Usage Guide
Context: academic, journalism, literary
Tone: neutral
Origin & History
From Greek aristokratia (rule of the best), combining aristos (best, most excellent) and kratos (power). Entered English in the 16th century via French aristocratique.
Cultural Context
Era: Modern
Generation: All ages
Social background: Upper class
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