The term "second estate" refers to the nobility or aristocracy - the social class of people who held privileged positions of power and wealth in medieval Europe. There are several synonyms for this term, including the "aristocracy," the "upper class," the "patricians," and the "elite." These synonyms all refer to the same social group - those individuals who were born into a higher social status and enjoyed significant political and economic influence in their communities. While the concept of the second estate is rooted in medieval Europe, these synonyms remain relevant today as social hierarchies continue to exist in many parts of the world.