Meaning & Definition of word "Crony"

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.