optimate Meaning, Definition & Usage

Op"ti*mate adjective
Etymology
L. optimas, -atis, adj., optimates, n. pl., the adherents of the best men, the aristocrats, fr. optimus the best.
Definitions
  1. Of or pertaining to the nobility or aristocracy. R. -- n. A nobleman or aristocrat; a chief man in a state or city. R. Chapman.

Webster 1913