'Magnate' definitions:

Definition of 'Magnate'

From: GCIDE

Magnate \Mag"nate\, [F. magnat, L. (pl.) magnates, magnati, fr. magnus great. See Master.]
1. A person of rank; a noble or grandee; a person of influence or distinction in any sphere; -- used mostly of prominent business executives; as, an industrial magnate. --Macaulay. [1913 Webster +PJC]
2. One of the nobility, or certain high officers of state belonging to the noble estate in the national representation of Hungary, and formerly of Poland. [1913 Webster]