clique

[ klik, kleek ]

noun

1. a small, exclusive group of people; coterie; set.

verb (used without object)

, cliqued, cli·quing.

1. Informal. to form, or associate in, a clique.

clique

/ klɪk; kliːk /

noun

1. a small, exclusive group of friends or associates

Derived Forms

• ˈcliquishness, noun
• ˈcliquish, adjective
• ˈcliquishly, adverb

Other Words From

• clique·less adjective
• cli·quey cli·quy adjective
• cli·quism noun
• sub·clique noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of clique¹

1705–15; < French, apparently metaphorical use of Middle French clique latch, or noun derivative of cliquer to make noise, resound, imitative word parallel to click ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of clique¹

C18: from French, perhaps from Old French: latch, from cliquer to click; suggestive of the necessity to exclude nonmembers

Synonym Study

See circle, ring ¹.

Example Sentences

The man soon to be first in the line of succession was cut out of the clique — as he seemingly has been since the election of the Trump-Vance ticket two weeks ago.

From Los Angeles Times

Unlike legacy media, where similar outlets are viewed as competition, podcasters often treat each other as part of a larger community, or "clique."

From Salon

The newly reported group, which is not named in the memo, is based out of the Los Angeles CountySheriff’s Department’s Norwalk station, which had not previously been linked to any reported deputy gang or clique.

From Los Angeles Times

“My priority was the gang policy, now it’s cliques,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times

They even called themselves the “cabal,” in what seemed a parodic tribute to Strauss’ clique of wise men.

From Salon

Related Words

• cabal
• clan
• coterie
• faction
• gang
• mob
• posse