noun

1. in the philosophy of Plato, a form of government in which ambition for power and glory motivates the rulers
2. in the philosophy of Aristotle, a form of government in which political power is in direct proportion to property ownership

Etymology: MFr tymocracie < ML timocratia < Gr timokratia < timē, honor, worth (< IE base *kwei-, to heed, value > Lith káina, worth, price) + kratia (see -cracy)