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

Bass’ allies have argued that she’s under attack from “wealthy oligarchs,” including Caruso and Nicole Shanahan, a Trump supporter who is helping bankroll a campaign to recall her.

From Los Angeles Times

“Elites” remains a snarl word in America, but it no longer means a wealthy oligarch exploiting the common people.

From Salon

Violence would soar, the medicine could fall into the wrong hands, oligarchs and evildoers would never die.

From Salon

In much the same way, the Russian state has convinced its vatniks to fight and die for oligarchs who wouldn’t let them within five kilometers of their palaces.

From Salon

And yet, this unelected billionaire oligarch continues to wreak havoc on as he reshapes the American constitutional order in the image of the CEO.

From Salon

Related Words

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