aristocracy
US /ˌer.əˈstɑː.krə.si/
UK /ˌer.əˈstɑː.krə.si/
1.
the highest class in certain societies, especially those holding hereditary titles or offices
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The old aristocracy still held significant power in the region.
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Membership in the aristocracy was usually determined by birth.
2.
a government by a small privileged class or by a minority of those best qualified to rule
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The country was ruled by an aristocracy for centuries.
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Many ancient Greek city-states practiced some form of aristocracy.