1. A form of government in which power rests with a small number of people, often distinguished by wealth, family ties, corporate influence, military control, or education.
The country was ruled by an oligarchy of wealthy merchants.
O país era governado por uma oligarquia de comerciantes ricos.
2. A group of people who hold power in an oligarchic system.
The oligarchy controlled all major industries.
A oligarquia controlava todas as indústrias principais.