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View synonyms for

cronyism

[ kroh-nee-iz-uhm ]

noun

  1. the practice of favoring one's close friends, especially in political appointments.


cronyism

/ ˈəʊɪˌɪə /

noun

  1. the practice of appointing friends to high-level, esp political, posts regardless of their suitability
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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Word History and Origins

Origin of cronyism1

First recorded in 1830–40; crony + -ism
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Compare Meanings

How does cronyism compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

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More About Cronyism

doesDzԲ⾱mean?

Cronyism the practice of appointing friends or associates to positions or otherwise showing them favor due to having a relationship with them, rather than for their qualifications.

The word cronyism is used to criticize such practices, especially in politics.

The people appointed to these positions can be called cronies, as in He ran for office to enrich himself and his cronies.

In general, a crony is a close friend or associate, especially one among several. Crony can be used in a neutral way meaning much the same thing as buddy or pal, as in I still get together with my college cronies. But the word is most often used in a negative way to refer to a lackey or an accomplice in some kind of shady or illegal activity.

Example: Several high-ranking department positions were given to friends and former business associates of the governor, resulting in accusations of cronyism.

Where doescronyism come from?

The first records of the word cronyism come from the 1800s. The origin of the word crony isn’t known for sure, but it’s thought to come from university slang—its early recorded uses refer to school buddies. One possible origin could be the Greek óԾDz, which means “for a long time” and is derived from the Greek óԴDz, “time.” This makes sense since a crony is often a person you’ve known for a long time. The suffix -ism indicates a practice of something.

When a politician or public official appoints their longtime associates to positions, these people are often referred to as their cronies, especially in accusations of cronyism. Similarly, the practice of appointing family members to positions is called nepotism.Cronyism, nepotism, and other forms of favoritism are all commonly discussed in the context of criticism of governmental and political corruption.

Did you know ... ?

are some other forms related to cronyism?

are some words that share a root or word element with cronyism?

are some words that often get used in discussing cronyism?

How iscronyism used in real life?

The word cronyism is used in a critical way, especially in the context of politics.

Try usingcronyism!

Which of the following kinds of people are typically given positions under a system that’s considered to be cronyism?

A. political opponents
B. the most qualified candidates
C. buddies
D. strangers

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