e·lit·ism or é·lit·ism 
(ĭ-lētĭz′əm, ā-lē-)
(ĭ-lētĭz′əm, ā-lē-)n.
1. The belief that certain persons or members of certain groups deserve favored treatment by virtue of their superiority, as in intelligence, social standing, or wealth.
2.
a. Behavior arising from or indicative of such a belief.
b. Control, rule, or domination by the members of an elite.
e·litist adj. & n.