Definition

A person who belongs to a high social class, especially in ancient Rome, where they had special rights and privileges.

Example

The patrician family held significant power in the Roman Senate.

Conversation

Did you know that she comes from a patrician family?

Really? That explains her sophisticated taste in art.

Yeah, I always thought she had a certain elegance about her.

Definitely! It must be nice to have that kind of background.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Patrician is derived from the Latin "patricius" (meaning noble or of noble birth), which itself comes from "pater" (meaning father). The term originally referred to the noble class in ancient Rome, indicating those who were descendants of the founding fathers of the city. Thus, a patrician is someone of noble lineage or status.

Memory Tip

Think of 'father' ('pater') to remember that a patrician is someone of noble birth, as they are descendants of the founding fathers.

Visually Confused Words