clique etymology

Etymology

The word "clique" comes from the French word "cliquetis," which means "a rattling or clatter." It was first used in English with the meaning of "a small, exclusive group of people who share common interests" in the 18th century.

Meaning

A clique is a small, exclusive group of people who share common interests or goals. Cliques are often formed in schools, workplaces, or other social settings. They can be positive or negative, depending on the behavior of the members.

Origin

The word "clique" was originally used to describe the sound of a sword or other weapon rattling. It was later used to refer to a group of people who were close friends or allies. In the 18th century, the word began to be used in a more negative sense, to describe a group of people who were closed off to outsiders and who used their influence to advance their own interests.

Examples

  • The popular kids at school formed a clique and wouldn't let anyone else join.
  • The executives at the company formed a clique and made all the important decisions.
  • The neighbors formed a clique and didn't welcome anyone new to the neighborhood.

clique relate terms

  • claque

    Etymology French from Middle French claque from claquer to clap applaud Meaning

  • clap

    Etymology The word clap is believed to originate from the Middle English word clappen

  • cliquish

    Etymology Cliquish is derived from clique which comes from the French word cliquer

  • clique

    Etymology The word clique comes from the French word cliquetis which means a rattli

  • pack

    Etymology Middle English pakke from Old English peac Proto Germanic pakka Proto I

  • camp

    Etymology The word camp comes from the Old Italian word campo meaning open field o

  • click

    Etymology The word click originated from the Middle English word clicken which itse

  • politician

    Etymology The term politician derives from the Greek word politikos meaning of fo

  • loop

    Etymology The word loop comes from the Middle English word lope which in turn comes

  • polo

    Etymology Polo is derived from the Balti word pulu meaning ball Origin Polo ori

  • pool

    Etymology The word pool originates from the Middle English word pol which is derive

  • cabal

    Etymology The word cabal has its origins in the Hebrew word kabbalah which means to

  • band

    Etymology The word band comes from the Old English word bend which originally meant

  • faction

    Etymology The word faction is derived from the Latin word factio which means a do