Gentry: meaning, definitions and examples

The term 'gentry' is typically used to describe people of good social position situated below the nobility but above the common people, typically landed gentry owning estates.

• The rural gentry attended the town's social events regularly
• Many members of the gentry had ancestral homes

'Nobility' is used to specifically denote people who hold noble titles granted by a monarch, such as dukes, earls, and barons. It highlights formal recognition of high social status.

• The nobility played a crucial role in medieval politics
• The king granted titles of nobility to his most loyal subjects

'Upper class' is more broadly used to describe people who are wealthy and powerful, regardless of their titles. It often refers to contemporary society.

• The upper class tends to live in exclusive neighborhoods
• Financial stability is a common trait among the upper class

'Aristocracy' refers to the highest class in certain societies, especially those holding hereditary titles or offices. It conveys a sense of historical grandeur and high status.

• The British aristocracy has a long and storied history
• She was fascinated by the lives of the French aristocracy before the revolution