cronyism

American  

[kroh-nee-iz-uhm] / ˈkroʊ niˌɪz əm /

noun

1. the practice of favoring one's close friends, especially in political appointments.

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cronyism British  

/ ˈkrəʊnɪˌɪzəm /

noun

1. the practice of appointing friends to high-level, esp political, posts regardless of their suitability

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Usage

What does cronyism mean? Cronyism the practice of appointing friends or associates to positions or otherwise showing them favor due to having a relationship with them, rather than for their qualifications. The word cronyism is used to criticize such practices, especially in politics. The people appointed to these positions can be called cronies, as in He ran for office to enrich himself and his cronies.  In general, a crony is a close friend or associate, especially one among several. Crony can be used in a neutral way meaning much the same thing as buddy or pal, as in I still get together with my college cronies. But the word is most often used in a negative way to refer to a lackey or an accomplice in some kind of shady or illegal activity. Example: Several high-ranking department positions were given to friends and former business associates of the governor, resulting in accusations of cronyism.

Etymology

Origin of cronyism

First recorded in 1830–40; crony + -ism

Compare meaning

How does cronyism compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• nepotism vs. cronyism

Explanation

When someone hires a friend to do a job, whether or not she's the best candidate, that's cronyism. A governor appointing his inexperienced daughter to an important staff position is one example of cronyism. You're most likely to find the word cronyism in political discussions. It's not necessarily considered cronyism for a public figure to hire, promote, or appoint her friends or colleagues. However, if the person isn't as qualified as other candidates but gets the job anyway, it's a clear case of cronyism. The original meaning of cronyism was simply "friendship," from crony, Cambridge student slang for "old friend" from the Greek khronios, "long-lasting."

Example Sentences

Balen’s success has been a hopeful counterpoint in a country that many Nepalis see as rife with corruption and cronyism, allowing only the well-connected to flourish, while ordinary people are shut out.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 4, 2026

Jacob Zuma was sentenced to 15 months in jail after refusing to testify to a panel probing financial corruption and cronyism under his presidency.

From Barron's • Nov. 28, 2025

Such protectionism has also led to allegations of cronyism.

From BBC • Apr. 10, 2025

In the Federalist Papers, Alexander Hamilton explained that this confirmation process was a bulwark against cronyism and a safeguard of good government.

From Slate • Feb. 20, 2025

He relished the social aspect of his precinct duties but had always been put off by city hall cronyism.

From "Becoming" by Michelle Obama