'plutocracy' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'ploutokratia,' where 'ploutos' meant 'wealth' and 'kratos' meant 'power or rule.'

'ploutokratia' transformed into the French word 'ploutocratie,' and eventually became the modern English word 'plutocracy' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'rule by the wealthy,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.