Which definition best describes aristocracy?

The definition that best describes aristocracy is that it is a government ruled by the nobility. Aristocracy is a form of governance where power is held by a small, privileged ruling class, generally members of the nobility or elite families. This system often emphasizes hereditary titles and social status, where those considered "best" in society—according to characteristics like birth, education, or wealth—hold authority and influence over governance and decision-making.

While the other options refer to different forms of government, such as democracy or representation by elected officials, aristocracy specifically pertains to a system where the ruling power is concentrated in the hands of a few noble individuals or families. This structural distinction underscores the unique nature of aristocracy compared to broader democratic practices or representative systems that prioritize the participation of the general populace.