Patrician: meaning, definitions and examples

Usually refers to a member of the ruling class in ancient Rome, or someone from an old, established, and respected family. It's often used in historical or formal contexts.

• The patrician families of Rome controlled the political power.
• He had a patrician bearing that commanded respect.

Refers to a member of the aristocracy, someone who belongs to the highest social class, typically by birth. Common in historical, formal, or socio-political discussions.

• The young aristocrat spent his summers at the family estate.
• She married into a family of European aristocrats.

Describes someone belonging to the class with hereditary or honorary titles, who usually has high social or political status. Can be used in historical and formal contexts.

• The noble families gathered for the annual banquet.
• He acts with a noble sense of duty.

Refers to a man of high rank in nobility, or someone who owns a lot of land. It’s used in historical or formal contexts, and can sometimes be used in religious contexts to refer to God.

• The lord of the manor was responsible for the welfare of his tenants.
• He was addressed as 'my lord' during the ceremony.

Often used to address or refer to a woman with good manners, or someone who has a title in nobility. It can also be a respectful way to refer to any woman.

• Please follow me, my lady.
• She behaved like a true lady at the event.

This word is suitable for describing someone or something associated with the upper class, especially in historical or formal contexts.

• She came from a patrician family with a long history of public service

Use this word to refer to someone belonging to the aristocracy, typically emphasizing noble lineage and tradition.

• His aristocratic manners set him apart at the gathering

This word fits well when describing something or someone that is tasteful and graceful, often in appearance or style.

• The elegant design of the room impressed all the guests

Use this word to describe someone or something that is polished and cultured, often indicating good education and sophisticated upbringing.

• She has a refined taste in art and music

This word is appropriate for describing someone or something that is worldly and knowledgeable, often with an air of complexity and modernity.

• He gave a sophisticated analysis of the economic trends