a. [ L. optimas, -atis, adj., optimates, n. pl., the adherents of the best men, the aristocrats, fr. optimus the best. ] Of or pertaining to the nobility or aristocracy. [ R. ] -- n. A nobleman or aristocrat; a chief man in a state or city. [ R. ] Chapman. [ 1913 Webster ]

‖n. pl. [ L. See Optimate. ] The nobility or aristocracy of ancient Rome, as opposed to the populares. [ 1913 Webster ]