What Is Another Way to Say “Upper Class”?

Looking for synonyms for upper class? We’ve got you covered!

Here’s a list of other ways to say upper class.

  • Aristocracy
  • Elite
  • Nobility
  • Gentry
  • Patriciate
  • High society
  • Blue bloods
  • Jet set
  • Wealthy
  • Affluent
  • Privileged
  • Well-to-do
  • Upper crust
  • Upper echelon
  • Socialites
  • Ruling class
  • Oligarchy
  • Bourgeoisie
  • Moneyed class
  • Upper tier

Want to learn how to say upper class professionally? Keep reading for examples and use cases.

1. Aristocracy

Used to describe a class of people holding exceptional rank and privileges, especially hereditary nobility.
Example: “The aristocracy played a significant role in the cultural patronage of the arts during the Renaissance.”

2. Elite

Appropriate for a group or class of persons considered to be superior in status or quality.
Example: “The company’s leadership development program aims to groom the next generation of elite executives.”

3. Nobility

Refers to a socially or politically privileged class whose titles are often hereditary.
Example: “Members of the nobility were significant landowners in medieval Europe.”

4. Gentry

Denotes people of good social position, specifically the class of people next below the nobility.
Example: “The estate was historically owned by the local gentry, who were prominent in regional affairs.”

5. Patriciate

Used to describe the hereditary aristocracy or ruling class of ancient Rome and medieval Europe.
Example: “The patriciate was instrumental in shaping the political landscape of medieval Italian city-states.”

6. High society

Refers to the social class of people who are rich, famous, and of high social status.
Example: “The charity gala was a gathering of high society, with many influential figures in attendance.”

7. Blue bloods

A term used for people of noble birth or from a family of aristocratic lineage.
Example: “The blue bloods of the city had a major influence on its cultural institutions.”

8. Jet set

Refers to an international social group of wealthy individuals who travel frequently for pleasure.
Example: “The resort is a popular destination for the jet set, attracting affluent tourists from around the world.”

9. Wealthy

A broad term for individuals or families with substantial wealth and economic power.
Example: “The wealthy patrons donated generously to the museum’s renovation project.”

10. Affluent

Describes people who have a lot of money and enjoy a high standard of living.
Example: “The company’s marketing strategy targets affluent consumers with a taste for luxury.”

11. Privileged

Refers to individuals who enjoy special rights or advantages due to their wealth or social position.
Example: “The scholarship aims to support talented students who are not from privileged backgrounds.”

12. Well-to-do

Used for people who are comfortably off or wealthy.
Example: “The well-to-do neighborhood is known for its exclusive boutiques and fine dining restaurants.”

13. Upper crust

Informal term for the highest social class or group, especially in wealth or rank.
Example: “The annual ball was an event where the upper crust of society gathered.”

14. Upper echelon

Refers to the highest level or group in an organization or society, especially in terms of authority or wealth.
Example: “She has made her way into the upper echelon of the corporate world through sheer determination.”

15. Socialites

People who are well-known in fashionable society and are often wealthy and given to social entertainments.
Example: “The event was attended by several prominent socialites and celebrities.”

16. Ruling class

Refers to the class of people exerting power or authority, typically those who are wealthy and influential.
Example: “Historically, the ruling class controlled most of the resources and decision-making processes in the society.”

17. Oligarchy

Denotes a form of power structure in which power effectively rests with a small segment of society distinguished by wealth, family, or military influence.
Example: “The city-state was governed by an oligarchy composed of the wealthiest citizens.”

18. Bourgeoisie

Refers to the middle class, typically with reference to its perceived materialistic values or conventional attitudes.
Example: “The rise of the bourgeoisie played a crucial role in the economic development of the 19th century.”

19. Moneyed class

Describes a social class of people who possess considerable wealth.
Example: “The moneyed class has been a major patron of the arts and philanthropy over the centuries.”

20. Upper tier

Used to describe the top level or class in a hierarchical structure, especially in wealth or status.
Example: “The company’s upper tier management is composed of highly experienced industry professionals.”

Linda Brown