Definition

A group of people who own and control plantations, often having significant power and influence in society and government.

Example

The plantocracy held significant sway over the political decisions of the region.

Conversation

I was reading about the history of the Caribbean and came across the term plantocracy.

Oh really? What does it refer to?

It describes a ruling class made up of plantation owners back in the day.

That makes sense! It must have greatly influenced the region's social structure.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Plantocracy is formed from "plant" (from Latin *planta*, meaning a young shoot or sprout) and "-cracy" (from Greek *kratos*, meaning power or rule). The term refers to a system of governance or social order where power is held by landowners or those who control agricultural production.

Memory Tip

Think of 'plant' as a young shoot that grows and 'cracy' as a form of rule or power — together, they describe a system where those who control the land and its growth hold power.

Visually Confused Words