oligarch

[ ol-i-gahrk ]

noun

1. one of the rulers in an oligarchy.

oligarch

/ ˈɒlɪˌɡɑːk /

noun

1. a member of an oligarchy

Word History and Origins

Origin of oligarch¹

First recorded in 1600–10; from Greek oligárchēs; olig-, + -arch ( def )

Example Sentences

Former President Trump’s performative faux populism, paid for an oligarch like Elon Musk, spoke to enough of this cohort that the Democrats' rust belt strategy collapsed with some union households going red and millions who opted to stay home.

From Salon

Sandu and Moldova's authorities have warned that a fugitive oligarch now based in Russia is trying to buy the election for Moscow.

From BBC

This makes it more clear than ever: You cannot be a truly independent news organization if you are owned by an oligarch.

From Salon

The editorial editor, David Shipley, was installed by Bezos after proving his loyalty to another oligarch, Mike Bloomberg, whose views he dutifully reflected in his editorials.

From Salon

The authorities believe the cash mules were part of a major and ongoing operation to buy political influence run by a fugitive Moldovan oligarch named Ilan Shor.

From BBC

Related Words

• authoritarian
• autocrat
• commander
• despot
• totalitarian
• tyrant