meritocracy UK /mɛɹɪˈtɒkɹəsi/US /mɛɹəˈtɑkɹəsi/ noun2 •Rule by merit and talent.As a small nation without natural resources, Singapore relies on education and meritocracy to develop its economy. •A type of society where wealth, income, and social status are assigned through competition. formsmeritocracies