Best among the literati (5)

I believe the answer is:

elite

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'best' is the definition.
(elite can mean the very best of a group)

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for elite that I've seen before include "Chosen ones" , "Select part" , "Group enjoying superior status" , "A privileged or superior social group" , "Superior or favoured group of people" .)

I've seen this clue in The Sun.

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