patricians

noun

1. 1

   (antiquity) A member of any of the families constituting the populus Romanus, or body of Roman citizens, before the development of the plebeian order; later, one who, by right of birth or by special privilege conferred, belonged to the senior class of Romans, who, with certain property, had by right a seat in the Roman Senate.

2. 2

   A person of high birth; a nobleman.

3. 3

   One familiar with the works of the Christian Fathers; one versed in patristic lore or life.