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Definition of cronyism

cronyism

/ˈkroʊ.ni.ɪ.zəm/
cro · ny · ism
Adjective:cronyistic
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cronyism Lexical Profile

cronyism Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The improper appointment of friends and associates to positions of authority, without proper regard to their qualifications.

Example

"The administration faced severe criticism for cronyism after awarding lucrative contracts to the mayor's longtime friends."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for cronyism
Antonyms
View all antonyms for cronyism

Word Nuance & Usage

While 'nepotism' specifically refers to favoring family members and relatives, 'cronyism' refers to showing partiality toward friends and close associates.

• Nearby Words

crone
cronus
crony
cronyism
crook
crooked
crookedly

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the mid-19th century from 'crony' + '-ism'. The word 'crony' originated as 17th-century Cambridge University slang from the Greek 'khronios' (meaning 'long-lasting'), referring to a contemporary or long-standing friend.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Cronyism. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/cronyism
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