Meaning & Definition of word "Crony"
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Crony
/ˈkroʊni/
noun:
- 1. A close friend or companion, especially one with whom someone is associated in business or politics.
- Example: The politician was often criticized for appointing his cronies to key positions in the government.
- 2. A person who is part of a group that favors each other, often in a corrupt or unethical manner.
- Example: The CEO was known to surround himself with cronies who did not challenge his decisions.
- 3. An informal term for a close associate.
- Example: She met up with her old cronies from college at the reunion.
Etymology
The word 'crony' originates from the mid-19th century, likely derived from 'cronies' which is a variant of 'cromie', a Scottish term for 'old friend'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
crony capitalism:
An economic system characterized by close, mutually beneficial relationships between business leaders and government officials.
political cronyism:
The practice of appointing friends and associates to positions of authority regardless of their qualifications.
Related Words
comrade:
A companion who shares one's activities or is a fellow member of an organization.
confidant:
A person with whom one shares a secret or private matter.
Slang Meanings of crony
Meaning: A close friend, often used in a casual context.
Example Sentence: We've been cronies since childhood.
Meaning: Used to describe a group of close friends with shared interests.
Example Sentence: My cronies and I are going hiking this weekend.