1. members of a small group of people who control a country, organization, or institution
Usage: plural of oligarch
2. wealthy business leaders who have significant political influence
Usage: often used in reference to post-Soviet countries

Examples

• The oligarchs controlled most of the country’s natural resources.
• Russian oligarchs accumulated vast wealth during the privatization period.
• The government tried to limit the influence of powerful oligarchs.
• Many oligarchs fled the country when new sanctions were imposed.
• The oligarchs met secretly to discuss their business interests.
• Critics argued that oligarchs had too much control over the media.
• Several oligarchs were investigated for corruption charges.