ruling class; governing class
Refers to the social stratum that holds political or economic power. Often used in discussions of politics, history, or sociology.
Decisions made by the ruling class greatly affect the lives of the people.
Historically, the ruling class has often enjoyed privileges.
エリート emphasizes individual excellence or selection, whereas 支配層 focuses on the group that holds power.
Compound of 支配 (control, rule) and 層 (stratum, layer).