cronyism

noun

Definition of cronyismnext
as in prejudice
disapproving the unfair practice by a powerful person (such as a politician) of giving jobs and other favors to friends The mayor has been accused of cronyism.

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of cronyism Personal bias … petty jealousies … vendettas … cronyism … axes to grind. — Steve Buckley, New York Times, 5 Sep. 2026 The pro-Russia conservative leader ruled for 20 years in total, leaving a web of corrupt cronyism in highly compromised state institutions. — The Christian Science Monitor, Christian Science Monitor, 24 Aug. 2026 In this series finale, Whitehead presents his New York City as an urbanscape rife with brutality, cronyism and corruption, increasingly fed by unbridled capitalism. — Literary Hub, 28 July 2026 Last-minute maneuvers to force the hands of aldermen on what looks more like appointments of friends and allies than people with leadership potential is cronyism that is being supported by those the mayor chooses to surround himself with. — Nik Hunder, Chicago Tribune, 19 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for cronyism
Recent Examples of Synonyms for cronyism
  1. prejudice
  2. bias
  3. nepotism
  4. favoritism
Noun
  • The new Holocaust Museum for Hope & Humanity will teach the next generation how to continue to fight back against antisemitism and all forms of prejudice and bigotry.
    — Linda Chapin, The Orlando Sentinel, 1 Nov. 2026
  • Gleason dismissed the case without prejudice, denied permission to amend again, and rejected the discovery request as moot.
    — Kaelan Deese, The Washington Examiner, 1 Nov. 2026
Definition of prejudice
Noun
  • The defense trial accounts of bias were connected to Weeks’ rulings, which were within his discretion and not a basis for recusal, prosecutors argued.
    — Emerson Clarridge, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 31 Oct. 2026
  • Encourage Small Bets Without Fear Of Failure Set the intention and back it with a bias toward action.
    — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 30 Oct. 2026
Definition of bias
Noun
  • Janet Rogers, the wife of Tyrone Rogers, was appointed to the position in February after Arambula stepped down, prompting accusations of nepotism.
    — Evy Lewis, Chicago Tribune, 27 Oct. 2026
  • Sorry but this nepotism and bravolebrity entitlement does not put him above the law.
    — Stephanie Giang-Paunon, FOXNews.com, 13 Oct. 2026
Definition of nepotism
Noun
  • The government responded to her filing and courtroom outburst by asking that she be removed from the case citing hostility toward the government and favoritism for the plaintiffs.
    — Gary Fields, Los Angeles Times, 19 Oct. 2026
  • The same relationships that make effective representation possible also make political favoritism difficult to distinguish from legitimate government.
    — Nicholas Jacobs, The Conversation, 19 Oct. 2026
Definition of favoritism

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crony
cronyism
crook
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Cite this Entry

“Cronyism.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/cronyism. Accessed 6 Nov. 2026.

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