cronyism

noun

cro·​ny·​ism ˈkrō-nē-ˌi-zəm 

: partiality to cronies especially as evidenced in the appointment of political hangers-on to office without regard to their qualifications

Did you know?

The word cronyism evolved in the 19th century as a spin-off of crony, meaning “friend” or “pal.” In its younger days, cronyism simply meant “friendship,” or “the ability to make friends.” The word didn’t turn bad until the next century, when Americans starting using it to refer to the act of playing political favorites. If cronyism is new to your vocabulary, perhaps you’re more familiar with the related term nepotism, meaning “favoritism based on kinship, especially in professional and political contexts.”

Examples of cronyism in a Sentence

The mayor has been accused of cronyism.

Recent Examples on the Web

These swift moves from Magyar reflect his promise to sweep away the corruption, cronyism and Kremlin allyship that European officials and watchdogs say plagued Orbán's Hungary. —Alexander Smith, NBC news, 19 Apr. 2026

Political players’ seeking to manipulate the game with cronyism or nepotism is no way to regain the public trust. —Michelle Cottle, Mercury News, 9 Apr. 2026

The role of Mahama’s brother in mining deals has been controversial, and the president has repeatedly denied accusations of cronyism. —Tiisetso Motsoeneng, semafor.com, 8 Apr. 2026

Bagley and Jordon apparently believe that their elitism and tech-bro cronyism are reasonable political positions. —John Samuelsen, New York Daily News, 17 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for cronyism

• ism
• pisum
• prism
• schism
• abolitionism
• aldosteronism
• americanism
• anticommunism
• antisemitism
• antiterrorism
• bioterrorism
• colloquialism

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