clique
noun
a small, exclusive group of people; coterie; set.
cliques
-
pluralof clique.plural
The grammatical form denoting more than one person, place, thing, or idea.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Within this large group, cliques were formed but they often intermingled and share territory, like something from a simian Pixar film.
From Salon ● Apr. 23, 2026
But he brings out the idiosyncratic joys of the Mets roster—even its counterrevolutionary cliques.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 27, 2026
But she said the changing dynamic of the group, which reportedly includes several other celebrities, ended up reminding her of high school cliques and left her feeling "frozen out" at a vulnerable time.
From BBC ● Jan. 6, 2026
Based in a World War II-era housing project on 1st Street, the Rancho San Pedro gang is now divided into six cliques, including two female crews, the Malditas and the Locas.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 8, 2025
There are cliques, disgruntled staff, and the unmistakable scent of anxiety.
From "Split the Sky" by Marie Arnold
