spoils system

noun

1. the system or practice in which public offices with their emoluments and advantages are at the disposal of the victorious party for its own purposes.

spoils system

noun

1. See merit system
   the practice of filling appointive public offices with friends and supporters of the ruling political party Compare merit system

spoils system

1. The practice of appointing applicants to public offices as a reward for their loyalty to the political party in power. The term comes from a statement by a senator in the 1830s: “To the victor belong the spoils.” Reform of the system commenced in the 1880s with the introduction of merit as the basis of appointment to office. ( See James A. Garfield , machine politics , and patronage .)

Word History and Origins

Origin of spoils system¹

An Americanism dating back to 1830–40

Example Sentences

El Comandante used his Machiavellian bag of tricks to fuel a spoils system and political juggernaut that Venezuelans worshiped.

From The Daily Beast

And therefore, the old spoils system remains securely in place despite the promises to change the culture of Washington.

From The Daily Beast

He might even have been forgiven for his spoils system and unprecedented removals from office.

From Project Gutenberg

Many a modern politician could well ponder Sugers censure of the spoils system.

From Project Gutenberg

Arthur also advocated legislation against the spoils system, and on January 16, 1883, signed the Civil Service law.

From Project Gutenberg

Every thoughtful citizen perceives and laments the evils attendant on the present spoils system.

From Project Gutenberg

On the other hand, the spoils system breeds a class of men whose financial interest it is to take this necessary time and trouble.

From Project Gutenberg