crony etymology

Etymology

The word "crony" derives from the Middle English word "cronie," which means a close friend or companion. The word is ultimately derived from the Irish "cron," meaning "friend" or "companion."

Meaning and Origin

The term "crony" is typically used to refer to a close friend or associate, especially one who has a close personal or professional relationship with someone in a position of power or influence. The term often has negative connotations, implying that the relationship is based on mutual benefit or self-interest rather than genuine friendship.

The term "crony" was originally used in the 16th century to describe a close friend or companion. It was later used in the 17th century to describe a close associate of a person in a position of power, especially a corrupt or self-serving relationship. In the 20th century, the term took on its modern meaning of a close friend or associate who has a close personal or professional relationship with someone in a position of power or influence.

Examples of Usage

• "The president has been accused of having close cronies who have benefited financially from their relationship with him."
• "The company has been criticized for awarding contracts to its cronies without competitive bidding."
• "The mayor is known for surrounding himself with cronies who are loyal to him personally but who have little experience or qualifications."

crony relate terms

• contemporary

  Etymology Contemporary Late 15th century in the sense belonging to the same time f

• temporary

  Etymology The word temporary comes from the Late Latin temporarius meaning of time

• contemporary

  Etymology Contemporary Late 15th century in the sense belonging to the same time f

• crony

  Etymology The word crony derives from the Middle English word cronie which means a c

• cronyism

  Etymology Crony a close friend or companion ism a distinctive practice or sys

• crony

  Etymology The word crony derives from the Middle English word cronie which means a c

• chrono

  Etymology and Meaning The word chrono is derived from the Greek word χρόνος k

• buddy

  Etymology The word buddy is derived from the Middle English word bodi which is of un

• brother

  Etymology The word brother is derived from the Proto Indo European root bhrāter mea

• much

  Etymology The word etymology is derived from the Greek words étymon meaning true s

• friend

  Etymology The word friend comes from the Old English word freond which meant compa

• prosper

  Etymology From Latin prosper meaning successful favorable or lucky Ultimatel

• kettle

  Etymology The word kettle derives from the Old English word cetel which referred to

• vehement

  Etymology French véhément Latin vehemens violent impetuous ardent Proto Indo E