Gentry (Noun)
Meaning
The most powerful members of a society.
Classification
Nouns denoting groupings of people or objects.
Examples
- The wealthy elite and local gentry were invited to the charity gala, where they mingled and donated to a good cause.
- Historically, the gentry ruled the countryside and controlled vast tracts of land, while the peasants toiled on their estates.
- In the 18th century, the British gentry developed a passion for landscape gardening, reflecting their refined tastes and wealth.
- The local gentry supported the arts, providing patronage to talented but struggling artists in the community.
- Throughout the Middle Ages, the gentry fought alongside the nobility in battles for land, power, and prestige.